Category Archives: City of Wyoming

Lyme disease cases up 168% over five years in Michigan: How to avoid tick bites

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Blacklegged tick. (Photo Courtesy, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)


By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
greer@wktv.org


When it comes to summertime pests in Michigan, the pesky mosquito is generally thought of first. While that annual nuisance is prevalent again this year, another pest is making a comeback and taking its toll on Michiganders.

Like the mosquito, ticks are another summertime culprit that feasts on humans and spreads its own varieties of disease.

Tick-borne diseases, particularly Lyme disease and anaplasmosis, are increasing across the state of Michigan.

According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), Lyme disease cases have increased 168% over the last five years. Michigan recorded 1,215 cases of Lyme disease in 2024, as compared to 452 cases in 2020. Anaplasmosis cases in Michigan have seen an almost fivefold increase over the last five years, with 82 cases in 2024 compared to 17 in 2020.

Lyme disease most common one in Michigan

Lyme disease, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, is the most common tick-borne disease in Michigan. (Michigan Health and Human Services) Anaplasmosis, caused by the bacterium Anaplasma phagocytophilum, is the second most common tick-borne disease and cases are increasing, particularly in the northern parts of the state.


Blacklegged ticks. (Photo Courtesy, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)


“Preventing tick bites is the best way to prevent tick-borne diseases, including Lyme disease and anaplasmosis,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive for the MDHHS. “If you find a tick attached to your body, promptly remove it. Monitor your health, and if you experience fever, rash, muscle or joint aches or other symptoms, or if you suspect a tick has been attached for more than 24 hours, consult with your medical provider.”



Key Points from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

*Infected ticks are found most commonly in forested areas in the northeastern, north-central, and mid-Atlantic states, and in smaller areas within Pacific Coast states.
*Lyme disease bacteria causing human infection in the United States are spread to people by blacklegged (Ixodes) ticks.
*In general, infected ticks must be attached for more than 24 hours to transmit infection; prompt tick removal can prevent transmission.


Roughly 75% of Michigan Counties have a known risk for Lyme disease according to the latest map published by the Michigan.gov. Menominee and Dickinson Counties in the Upper Peninsula ranked first and second in the state for most confirmed cases of Lyme Disease. However, closer to home, Kalamazoo County was fourth, Ottawa County seventh and Allegan County is eighth in number of confirmed cases.

Unlike many other diseases, there is currently no vaccine to guard against Lyme Disease.

“There is a Lyme Disease vaccine for dogs,” said Dr. Maria Diuk-Wasser, a professor of ecology, evolution and environmental biology at Columbia University, who is researching the spread of ticks and which parts of the country tend to harbor disease-carrying ticks. “There is a vaccine in the works that is scheduled to come out in a couple of years. There used to be a vaccine for ticks, but it was taken off the market due to poor sales about 20 years ago.” 

The early symptoms of Lyme disease, according to the Mayo Clinic, are fever, headache, extreme tiredness, joint stiffness, muscle aches and pains and swollen lymph nodes. Signs and symptoms of tick-borne disease typically begin one to two weeks after a bite, often after being in wooded or brushy areas where ticks commonly live. Early treatment with appropriate antibiotics can decrease the risk of serious complications.


Classic Lyme disease rash. (Photo Courtesy, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

According to Health and Human Services, both Lyme disease and anaplasmosis are transmitted by Ixodes scapularis, commonly known as the blacklegged or deer tick. The blacklegged tick is well-established in parts of Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas and has been expanding its range over the years. 

The MDHHS is encouraging Michigan residents to take steps to avoid tick bites while enjoying the outdoors. Protect yourself against Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases by following these tips.

*Avoid tick-infested areas that harbor them like grassy, brushy and wooded areas. Individuals should walk in the center of trails to avoid contact with overgrown grass, brush and leaf litter on trail edges. Dogs and cats can encounter ticks outdoors and bring them into the home. Talk with your veterinarian about the best tick prevention products.
*Apply an EPA-registered repellent on exposed skin. Treat clothes before going out to forested areas or hiking with permethrin, which kills ticks on contact or buy clothes that are pre-treated. Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
*Always check for ticks on yourself and your animals after being outdoors, including in your own yard. Inspect all body surfaces carefully and remove attached ticks carefully with tweezers.
*Bathe or shower as soon as possible after coming indoors, preferably within two hours, to wash off and more easily find ticks. Wash clothing in hot water and dry on high heat to kill ticks.

For more information on Lyme disease and other tick-borne conditions, or how to submit your tick and/or photo of a tick, visit Michigan.gov/Lyme.

The Kent County Health Department also has a Tick Borne Diseases Fact Sheet available on its website.

Additional information nationally is available at CDC.gov/Lyme.

MHSAA: A century of school sports

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Local Sports, Sports, ,
(Logo Courtesy, MHSAA)



By Geoff Kimmerly
MHSAA.com senior editor
greer@wktv.org


A primary mission of the MHSAA’s 100-year anniversary has been to connect today’s athletes, administrators, coaches, game officials and spectators with their roles in the ever-growing story of school sports in Michigan.

Indeed, together, we are the MHSAA.

Over the last 10 months and with today’s 44th and final installment, our “Century of School Sports” series also has sought to tell a deeper and more detailed story of how the MHSAA has arrived at this moment. As our work becomes new with the start of every school year, and with every family experiencing educational athletics for the first time, it’s a story that must always be updated, expanded and retold.

But at the heart of most organizations is a fundamental statement. So to close this celebration, we below break down what is literally the “About” of the MHSAA – as we prepare to build on these values in adding to our story again and again during the century to come.

The MHSAA is a private, not-for-profit corporation …

Although the MHSAA has built a thriving relationship with the Michigan Department of Education over the last many decades – and, in fact, the state superintendent or designee has a non-voting position on the Representative Council – the MHSAA also has maintained its autonomy since its start and even before, as a legislative takeover attempt of the former Michigan Interscholastic Athletic Association led to the MHSAA’s formation in December 1924.

The MHSAA was first incorporated in 1972 and is classified as a 501(c)(3) organization. In the most basic terms, as a non-profit corporation the MHSAA must reinvest all revenue it receives back into its mission of administering school sports. Put another way, whatever money the MHSAA makes must be spent to conduct its tournament events and the several other educational, leadership, etc., programs the MHSAA provides for students, coaches, officials and others who contribute to educational athletics.

… of voluntary membership …

Through their boards of education, member schools voluntarily join the MHSAA each and every year, vowing by formal school board resolution to abide by and enforce the MHSAA’s rules for educational athletics. Membership is optional; schools may conduct a complete program of interscholastic athletics and may participate against MHSAA member schools in regular-season competition without joining the MHSAA. But the great majority of high schools in Michigan approve that membership annually.

… by more than 1,500 public and private senior high schools and junior high/middle schools …

Over the last several years, the MHSAA has counted about 750 high schools and 800 junior high or middle schools, or elementary schools with 6th-grader participation, among its membership. For 2024-25, those totals were 754 high schools, 777 junior high/middle schools and 63 elementary schools with participating sixth graders.

… which exists to develop common rules for athletic eligibility and competition.

This drove the original formation of school sports associations across the nation going back to the late 1800s, including the Michigan State Teachers Association’s first inroad into athletic administration in 1895. The MHSAA Handbook, updated annually with rules and other changes voted upon by the Representative Council, is the rulebook for all MHSAA member schools – public and nonpublic – with rules for general topics like student eligibility but also specific to each sport to regulate scheduling and other intricacies.

No government funds or tax dollars support the MHSAA …

In maintaining that independence noted above, the MHSAA receives no funding from local, state or federal governments. The MHSAA’s income is derived primarily from ticket sales at postseason events, with smaller portions from sponsors and advertising, officials and coaches education registration fees – and again, with all money brought in by the MHSAA going back into those tournament events and programs to support students, athletic directors, coaches and officials.

… which was the first such association nationally to not accept membership dues or tournament entry fees from schools.

These have long been points of pride for the MHSAA; membership remains and has been completely free since the mid-1940s, after the end of World War II, and member schools may enter MHSAA Tournaments for free.

Member schools which enforce these rules are permitted to participate in MHSAA tournaments …

In adopting and upholding MHSAA rules as their own, school districts agree to promote a standard of competitive equity necessary to keep MHSAA Tournament events fair for all involved.

… which attract more than 1.4 million spectators each year.

Over the last 35 years, attendance at MHSAA Tournament events has reached at least 1.1 million spectators annually (not counting the COVID-affected 2019-20 and 2020-21 school years), with a high of 1.68 million during the 2005-06 school year. Attendance during the 2022-23 and 2023-24 school years began climbing again toward 1.5 million spectators, those last two years’ ticket totals ranking among the highest over the last 15.

School sports have a massive footprint in Michigan, which has a population just above 10 million residents. Sure, attendance figures likely count the same spectators several times – the same person might buy tickets for several rounds of several sports over the course of a school year – but a one-to-one comparison using athlete totals also is powerful.

Conservatively, Michigan has at least 160,000 high school athletes. Add in parents of those athletes, grandparents, other relatives with significant interest, and that’s a huge block – let’s say at least 5 percent of the state’s population have some current tie to the athletes playing at the local high school. That’s not even covering athletes at MHSAA junior highs and middle schools, coaches and athletic directors at all levels, and more than 8,000 game officials who make those contests possible. And our groups of athletes are rolling over at least every four years, meaning many tens of thousands more have had at least recent direct contact as participants in our programs.

The MHSAA always has provided opportunities to compete and win championships, but more importantly to learn life lessons gleaned from simply taking part in the process.  

This work is important; its impact is significant. And just as our predecessors surely felt beginning this endeavor 100 years ago, we remain eager and enthused to play our part.

Mel Trotter Ministries partners with Catherine’s Health Center to expand clinic services to shelter guests

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Catherine’s Health Center CEO Megan Erskine (left) shaking hands with Mel Trotter CEO Chris Palusky celebrating the joint partnership to operate a full-service medical clinic at Mel Trotter Ministries (Courtesy, Mel Trotter Ministries)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Mel Trotter Ministries, the largest provider of services to people experiencing homelessness in West Michigan, announced an expansion of its partnership with Catherine’s Health Center. This expansion will result in increased health clinic services for guests staying at Mel Trotter’s shelter at 225 Commerce SW in Grand Rapids.

Catherine’s is now offering full-time medical care at Mel Trotter Ministries. This new partnership will provide 40 hours per week of comprehensive primary care services to guests, with plans to expand access to the broader Heartside community by early 2026.

Mishel Pollard of Catherine’s Health Center standing in the hallway at the full-service medical clinic (Courtesy, Mel Trotter Ministries)

The clinic will serve as a “medical home” for individuals experiencing homelessness, offering walk-in appointments and a full spectrum of services including substance use disorder (SUD) treatment and medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), immunizations, screenings, well-child visits, diagnostic lab services, chronic disease management, and referrals to specialty care.

Additional care

In addition to primary care, Catherine’s will provide:

  • 16 hours per week of dental hygiene services
  • 4 hours per week of psychiatric care
  • 40 hours per week of case management support

The entrance to the full-service clinic at Mel Trotter Ministries (Courtesy, Mel Trotter Ministries)

Bringing integrated services to the community

“We are grateful to Mel Trotter Ministries and their generous partners and donors for laying the foundation for this model of care,” said Megan Erskine, CEO at Catherine’s Health Center. “Their commitment over the past four years…has made it possible for us to expand our place-based care model and bring full-time, integrated services to this community.”

Catherine’s Health Center staff working in the full-service medical clinic. Left to right: Ollie Irwin, Mishel Pollard, Bettie DeChemin (Courtesy, Mel Trotter Ministries)

Catherine’s has spent the last three years delivering healthcare directly to the unhoused in shelters, churches and encampments. The new clinic represents the next evolution of this work, complemented by a mobile medical van that will continue to provide outreach and services across the region.

“We’re extremely pleased to expand our relationship with Catherine’s Health Center so that we can deliver the best possible care to our guests,” said Chris Palusky, CEO at Mel Trotter Ministries.

“When our renovated clinic space opened two years ago, it was our goal to provide services that healed the body and the spirit of those in need of assistance. This new service agreement will help us do that by bringing a more complete spectrum of care for anyone coming to our shelter.”

Tammy Morgan of Catherine’s Health Center working in an exam room at the full-service medical clinic (Courtesy, Mel Trotter Ministries)

The initiative goal is to provide personalized and dignified care to guests while reducing non-urgent emergency department visits and unnecessary hospitalizations. Ultimately, leaders at Mel Trotter Ministries and Catherine’s Health Center believe that improved physical and mental health outcomes will enhance housing opportunities and stability for individuals trapped in the cycle of homelessness.

Stay tuned!

The clinic expects to open its doors to anyone experiencing homelessness starting in October. An open house at the clinic is planned for Oct. 22.

To view Catherine’s Health Center upcoming events, click here.

Godwin Mercado near completion, City of Wyoming offers sneak-peek of new community space

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The City of Wyoming provided a tour of their new community market space, Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, Cris Greer WKTV)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Kyle VanEerden, Market Manager (right), and Krashawn Martin, Wyoming Parks and Recreation Director (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The City of Wyoming provided a tour of their new community market space, Godwin Mercado, on Tuesday, July 1.

Managed and programmed by Kyle VanEerden, Godwin Mercado Market Manager, and the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department, the market space will support local vendors, seasonal farm and artisan markets, food trucks, community events and private events.

Krashawn Martin, Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department Director, provided a preview of the nearly completed 6,000-square-foot, $6.2 million facility.

“The Godwin Mercado is a year-round market facility that we are looking at as a really amazing and beautiful gift to the community here in Wyoming,” said Martin.

“A lot of work has been done to get us to this point,” Martin continued, noting that the Mercado groundbreaking was held seven months ago. “It’s amazing to see the progress that has happened in the building so far.”

The Mercado will be fully operational in fall of 2025 and will soon open for community reservations and events. The full farmers market will open in spring of 2026 to allow a full season for farm vendors.


Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department staff talk with local media in Godwin Mercado’s outdoor plaza (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Fulfilling a vital need

Not only will the Mercado provide fun and educational activities and events, market days will provide fresh and healthy food options with access to all food assistance currencies. This will fill key gaps in the area’s food system and help support the well-being of local residents.

“This is definitely fulfilling a need,” said Martin. “We’re definitely trying to fill a gap in the food system over here. There are some options of grocery stores nearby, but we really want to be able to provide fresh food options to the community right here in this neighborhood while also providing some education.”

A community hub

On the west end is the Mercado outdoor plaza, a multipurpose space that can accommodate vendors, activities and live music, seating and can be rented for community events. Electrical power is available for food trucks and other event needs.

The Godwin Mercado outdoor plaza (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)


“Imagine there’s live music happening, there’s a lot of community, there’s kids laughing, there’s people talking,” said Martin. “That’s what this space should feel and look like once we’re fully operational.”

Accessible from the outdoor plaza is the Mercado main entrance and lobby. Restrooms can be found immediately to the left upon entering the lobby. Down the hall is a multipurpose room that can be utilized for meetings and during events. Another small room offers appliances such as warmers, a freezer and a refrigerator with a window connecting to the main event space.


Godwin Mercado main event space (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)


The main event space includes automatic overhead doors and room for 20-24 vendors. Outdoor space for additional vendors is available along the building’s north wall.

Two utility rooms with storage space and a full AV setup at the east end of the building round out the market space.

Events year-round

Godwin Mercado is open all year – even during Michigan’s winter months. Eight automatic overhead doors that open and close facilitate that year-round possibility.


Large overhead doors can be opened or closed depending on weather (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)


“In those colder weather months, maybe you’ll see the garage doors down, maybe we’ll have a little breeze going,” said Martin. “But this gives us a great amount of space to be able to have vendors.”

A single market day will be hosted each week during the winter months. Two market days will take place during the summer months.

Planning is already in progress for both a fall festival and a holiday market. The City’s annual winter event, Wrap Up Wyoming, will also take place at the Godwin Mercado.

Restoring a previous historic Wyoming event is also under consideration.

“Wyoming historically has had a pretty significant flea market that used to take place on 28th Street,” said Martin. “We’re hoping to bring back a semblance of a flea market that will take place here.”

Intentional connections

A mural installed by the nonprofit, Lions & Rabbits Center for the Arts, will be painted by a local artist on the outer south wall of the Godwin Mercado building.

The north side of the building is equipped with two connecting paths to the surrounding neighborhood, space for outdoor vendors, seating, a play area for children, and a bike repair station.


  • One of the walking paths connecting Godwin Mercado to the adjoining neighborhood (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • A neighborhood connecting walking path and the bike repair station site (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • Krashawn Martin talks about the various ways the market space connects to the community (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • A seating area on the north side of Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • Space for outdoor vendors and community/family gatherings on the north side of Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • The north side of Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • The Godwin Mercado parking area connects with the Godwin Heights school athletic complex (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The City’s reconfigured trail network, its proximity to the highway and Silver Line bus route, and the walkable neighborhood location will make the Mercado easily accessible to everyone.

“We’ve tried to be really intentional with some of our neighborhood connectors,” said Martin.

Educational collaborations with local schools and organizations are also in planning stages. The goal is to provide youth with education about fresh foods, fun collaborations with the adjoining Godwin Heights school athletic complex activities, and encouraging entrepreneurial skills by bringing youth in as vendors for a special market day.


Godwin Mercado landscaping is well under way (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)


Martin is cognizant, however, that other local organizations provide much of what the Mercado will offer the community – and she has no intention of reinventing the wheel.

“There are a lot of programs that are doing this work already, so it’s just finding those partnerships and having this be the space that people need for the ideas they already have,” said Martin. “We really want this to be an asset to the neighborhood that’s right here around us.”

Come one, come all!

Godwin Mercado will host a free grand opening event on Saturday, Aug. 16 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“We are really looking at that as a huge community block party, a gift to the community,” said Martin. “We want to give an opportunity for people to see and feel the space, and see some things that might be [around during] market season.”

Attendees can expect food trucks, local vendors, kids activities, live music, games, a free meal (while supplies last) and more.

Rendering of completed Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)

Resource links

The Godwin Mercado full market grand opening is planned for spring of 2026. For updates, sign up for the Godwin Mercado newsletter here.

Interested vendors can sign up to participate weekly or for the entire market season via an online vendor application.

For more information about Godwin Mercado, click here.

The Reverend Jesse Ray to bring a rockin’ experience and original tunes to Lamar Park on July 8

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Local Entertainment, Music, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, , , , , , ,
The audience can expect a rockin’ good time as The Reverend Jesse Ray, accompanied by his Carolina Catfish band, treats attendees to new songs and fan favorites (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks and Recreation)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Ray is back in Wyoming with new songs and authentic lyrics (Courtesy, Reverend Jesse Ray)

The Reverend Jesse Ray will take the stage at Lamar Park in Wyoming on Tuesday, July 8 at 6 p.m. with his trademark rock ‘n’ roll sound. The audience can expect a rockin’ good time as Ray, accompanied by his Carolina Catfish band, treats attendees to new songs and fan favorites.

The majority of Tuesday’s Concerts in the Park show will consist of original tunes written by Ray and featuring the kind of authentic song lyrics his fans first fell in love with.

“My favorite record that I’ve ever recorded or written was Angry (2016), and I feel like I’ve gotten away from that raw, rock ‘n’ roll, fun, vintage-style energy,” says Ray.

However, the singer-songwriter has recently returned to writing those authentic lyrics. “I’m more uncompromising with the music that I want to make, and I think I’m writing some really fun stuff lately.”

In addition to Ray’s return to his musical roots is the return of Ray’s original drummer.

“Dingo is back in the fold and we’re playing together,” Rays says. “It feels magical.”

The importance of authenticity

When asked why he emphasizes authenticity in his music, Ray referred to a comment made by Justin Townes Earl, one of Ray’s favorite songwriters.

Ray’s music often reflect his life experiences (Courtesy, Aaron Rorick)

“[He said] you’re not supposed to write about things you don’t know anything about,” said Ray. “You can’t talk about it. You don’t understand it, you don’t feel it.”

Ray went on to say he ensures that even the cover songs he plays are pieces he can personally relate to – with one exception.

“‘Folsom Prison Blues’ isn’t really something that I completely identify with – that one’s just for fun,” said Ray with a laugh.

Ray’s newest album, ¡Adiós! (July 2024), dispensed with all hyperbole and cryptic lyrics, bringing a raw vulnerability to the album.

“When I did ¡Adiós! I was in a spot that I’d never been in before,” said Ray. “I was really upset, and I was a little unabashed in my songwriting, what I was singing about. For lack of a better way of putting it, I was pretty naked in ¡Adiós!.”

And though revealing his vulnerable side can be both easy and difficult, Ray’s fans say they relate to the honesty in his lyrics.

Practicing what he preaches

As with writing songs, Ray chooses to live life authentically. “I try to practice what I preach, live what I sing about.”

Characterized as an “old soul with a lead foot,” Ray can often be found zipping down the highway on his Harley or mugging for the nearest camera. But while Ray is known for going against the grain in music and in life, the musician said he does not nurture a reckless spirit or behavior.

The Reverend Jesse Ray performs at outdoor venue in Grand Haven (Courtesy, Jeff Brinn)

“I used to [live] in more of a destructive way; I used to live my life to my own detriment,” said Ray, adding that he has given up vices such as alcohol and cigarettes.

“I’m still going against the grain. I’m doing something that really isn’t supposed to work, but it’s out of this love for this life that I have right now. It’s not being rebellious for the sake of rebellion, but just living life and enjoying it.”

Bringing people together

Ray focuses on performing well so listeners enjoy the show (Courtesy, Reverend Jesse Ray)

The musician hopes fans walk away from his shows feeling good and having connected with other audience members.

“It’s fun to hear about people and different friend groups meeting up and getting to know each other,” Ray said.

“I really like bringing people together with music. I really appreciate people that come out, and I want to make it worth their while.”

To learn more about The Reverend Jesse Ray and the Carolina Catfish, click here.

Concert details

Concerts in the Park performances are free and family-friendly.

Food trucks will offer delicious bites available for purchase. Bring a comfy lawn chair or blanket, grab some food, kick back and soak in the tunes!

The complete 2025 Concerts in the Park lineup can be found here.

#ShopWithPurpose at the WAR Chest Boutique’s annual summer Tent Sale in Wyoming

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From now until Aug. 30, the WAR Chest Boutique invites the community to shop with purpose at their annual summer Tent Sale that features a wide variety of items at greatly reduced prices (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


The WAR Chest Boutique in Wyoming invites the community to shop with purpose at their annual summer Tent Sale.

From June through Aug. 30, a wide variety of items will be available under the gondolas in the boutique’s front lawn, including new and pre-owned products as well as imperfect merchandise at greatly reduced prices.

#ShopWithPurpose

Sale items are hand-crafted by at-risk women (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The retail arm of non-profit organization, Women At Risk, International (WAR, Int’l), the WAR Chest Boutique includes retail stores, an online boutique, and product parties held in homes, businesses and churches throughout the United States.

Specializing in hand-crafted items by at-risk women in WAR, Int’l partnering programs, each product in the online boutique and in the retail stores comes with a story card detailing personal stories of men, women, and children who have passed through WAR, Int’l programs.

WAR, Int’l seeks to help women at risk. Using culturally sensitive, value-added intervention projects and partnerships, WAR, Int’l provides safe places to heal from abuse, trafficking, exploitation and more.

“Our mission is two-fold,” states the WAR Chest Boutique website. “We seek to market and sell handcrafted items made by at-risk and rescued men and women from around the world, supporting culturally sensitive, value-added intervention projects, while educating our shoppers about the risks the vulnerable face in our world.”

Tent sale details

Tent Sale items include jewelry, scarves, keychains, books, bookmarks, toys, ornaments, fabric, home decor, craft supplies, jewelry-making supplies and more.

The summer months include indoor monthly specials as well (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Also featured during the summer months are indoor monthly specials. During June, customers can enjoy 30% off all orange-tag clearance items.

WAR Chest Boutique hours are Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Boutique staff begin bringing Tent Sale items inside a half-hour before closing time, but customers are welcome to continue shopping indoors and outdoors until 5 p.m. During potentially stormy days, extreme heat conditions, or Mondays before the lawn service mows the grass, customers may shop Tent Sale items inside the boutique.

Shopping options are available online as well (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Summer exceptions to regular WAR Chest Boutique hours are June 26-27 (closed for inventory) and July 4 (closed for Independence Day).

Can’t make it to the tent sale? #ShopWithPurpose online here.

Purchases help free and empower survivors (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

All purchases from the WAR Chest Boutique help set women and children free from exploitation and slavery, and empower survivors to live and work with dignity and hope.

To learn more about the WAR Chest Boutique, click here. To learn more about WAR Int’l, click here.

Metro Cruise 2025 June-September Event Schedule

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Dream Wheels, Going Local, Kent County, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, , ,
(Courtesy photo)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org






June 26 – Thursday

Car Show @ Church of the Open Barn, 6421 56th Ave., Hudsonville

(More info to follow)

June 29 – Sunday

11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Antique Car & Tractor Show

The Saint Patrick Parnell Festival, 4351 Parnell Ave NE, Ada

For questions, call 616-206-7093

July 4 – Friday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Allendale 4th of July Car Show

Allendale Township Park, Lake MI Drive & 68th Street

$10 entry fee

Dash plaques to the first 100 / 17 awards

Food available

July 5 – Saturday 8 a.m – 2 p.m.

Ninth Annual Heykoop Veteran Memorial Car Show

Hot Rod Harley Davidson, 149 Shoreline Dr., Muskegon

Gates open at 8 a.m. (Enter via the driveway off Western Ave (to the east of Hot Rod, off Shoreline Drive)

$10 pre-registration or $20 on event day

Food trucks, Seven award categories, 50/50 and 60/40 raffles

July 5 – Saturday, 10 a.m.

Patriots Motor Show and Festival

Chief Noonday Car Park, 11899 M-179, Yankee Springs in Wayland

July 6 – Sunday, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Living in Freedom Car Show

New Chapel Church, 1029 4 Mile Rd NW, Grand Rapids

No entry fee

Free food, etc.

Awards and ribbons given for Best in Show and Top 10 – arrive between 10 – 10:45 a.m. for placing

July 12 – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Miss Metro Cruise Meet and Greet & Car Show

Moose Lodge in Wyoming

July 12 – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Registration 8 – 9 a.m.

Annual Zeeland Show & Shine Car Show

Downtown Zeeland on Main Street

$10 entry fee

July 11, Friday evening cruise from 6-7 p.m. Line up at Zeeland Stadium, 9900 Riley St, between 5-6 p.m.

July 12 – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Cars and Coffee Grand Rapids

Downtown Ada Village, 7430 River St. SE, Ada

Register online / Registration opens June 16

July 13 – Sunday

Mad Dogs and Englishmen All-British Car Show

At the Gilmore

July 17-20 – Thursday-Sunday

Road America Weather Tech Vintage Weekend

July 20 – Sunday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Fiesta Car Show

Holland Civic Center, 150 W. 8th St., Holland

$25 entry (cash)

Food truck and entertainment

Best of Show Award $1,000 / Additional Awards

July 23 – Wednesday, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Vintage, Classic and Muscle Car Show

Ottawa County Fairgrounds, 1286 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland

Free “Elvis” concert

No awards

No entry fee (see below)

Driver and one passenger free, additional guests $5 at gate

July 26 – Saturday, 1 p.m.

Tillema Auto Car Show

2437 Prescott St SW, Byron Center (near 84th & Byron Center, upper parking lot of First Reformed Church)

$10 fee

Music, food and games

July 27 – Sunday, 7:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Coast Guard Festival Car Show

Downtown Grand Haven on Washington Avenue

Parking opens at 6 a.m.

Early registration $12 / Day-of $15

Awards 1:30 p.m.

Aug. 3 – Sunday, 4-7 p.m.

Pinups for Pups & Car Show

The Dirty Dog Bar & Grill

2411 Hall Rd, Muskegon

Aug. 8 – Friday, 5-8 p.m. (Check-in 3 – 4:30 p.m.)

MKD Classic Car Show

At the Grandville Summer Street Fare

Downtown Grandville on Chicago Drive

Registration $10 – Find the registration form online and reserve a spot

Aug. 9 – Saturday, 6 a.m. – 3 p.m. (Registration opens at 6:30 a.m. / Pre-Registration open until July 31)

Coopersville Car Show

Pancake breakfast 7-10 a.m. at City Hall, 289 Danforth $7

Awards at 3 p.m.

(Car cruise Friday evening: Line up at 4 p.m. at 68th and O’Malley Drive)

Aug. 9 – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Cars and Coffee Grand Rapids

Downtown Ada Village, 7430 River St SE, Ada

Register online beginning July 13

Aug. 9 – Saturday, 10 a.m.

Sparta Celtic Car Show

Balyeat Field, 190 Olmstead St., Sparta

$15 entry fee

Aug. 12 – Tuesday, 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Second Annual Car Show

Berlin Raceway, 2008 Berlin Fair Dr., Marne

$10 entry

Awards 7 p.m.

(No vehicle entry between 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.)

Aug. 21 – Thursday, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.

15th Annual Metro Cruise Warm-up

Fowling Warehouse, 6797 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids.

Parking is first come, first serve

Check in at registration desk upon arrival

Live music, food, K9 display, etc.

Aug. 22 – 23 – Friday & Saturday

28th Street Metro Cruise, MAIN EVENT

Rogers Plaza, 972 28th Street SW, Wyoming

Begins at 9 a.m. Saturday

Check schedule online, including Woodland Mall events

Aug. 23 – Saturday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

All GM Show

Berger Chevrolet, 2525 28th St. SE, Grand Rapids

Free T-shirt and Hat to the first 400 entries

$20 per entry

Food trucks and donuts available

Aug. 24 – Sunday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. (Outdoor service at 10 a.m.)

Countryfest Cruise-in Car Show

Grace Lutheran Church, 2651 Shettler Rd, Fruitport

No entry fees or fundraising

Food and games available

For more info, call Tony at 231-740-7282

Sept. 1 – Monday, 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Muskegon Annual Cars for Cancer, Labor Day Car Show & Sunday Night Cruise

The Lakes Mall, 5500 Harvey Street

Pancake breakfast 7 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Registration 7-11 a.m.

Voting 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Awards 3 p.m.

Sept. 20 – Saturday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Star Customs Fall Festival Car Show, 29 N. Main St, Kent City

$15 fee

Awards 4-4:30 p.m.

Door prizes, food trucks, entertainment

Sept. 20 – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Cars and Coffee Grand Rapids

Artiflex Manufacturing, 2066 Bristol Ave NW, Grand Rapids

Register online

Registration opens Aug. 12

Sept. 21 – Sunday, 3-5 p.m. (Rain date Sept. 28)

Car Show & Little Kids Car Show, 2537 S. Stone Rd, Fremont

$10 fee

Awards 4:30 p.m. – Top ten and best of show original and modified

Sept. 28 – Sunday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Poker Run Car Show & Color Tour

Montcalm Township Complex, 1880 S. Greenville Rd (7 miles north of Greenville on M-91)

The Poker run is less than 55 miles

Awards to top 80, dash plaques to first 200

Food, door prizes, raffle

For info call Bruce at 616-835-3793

iCI Nation connects police and community members during annual Wyoming Fire Truck Pull event

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Crime Prevention, Entertainment, First Responders, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Police and Fire, Recreation, West Michigan, , , , ,
Fire Truck Pull (Courtesy, iCI Nation)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


The annual Wyoming Truck Pull took place at ResLife Church on Saturday, June 14. Coordinated by the Wyoming PD, this yearly event was a fundraiser for the Law Enforcement Torch Fun for Special Olympics Michigan.

Among the festivities was the popular fire truck pull competition. iCI Nation, a local non-profit dedicated to connecting police and community in positive ways, took part in the competition with a 10-member team sponsored by Siegel Jewelers.

The iCI Nation team consisted of local police officers, probation officers, surveillance officers, juvenile detention workers and youth. The team won a trophy for Most Money Raised for the fundraiser.

“Making history, not with our time, but our people!” said iCI Executive Director Jennifer Franson.

  • Fire Truck Pull (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • iCI Nation founder and executive director Jenn Franson introduces the fire truck pull team (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • Fire Truck Pull (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • Fire Truck Pull (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • Fire Truck Pull (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • Fire Truck Pull (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • iCI Nation team won the trophy for Most Money Raised (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • Jenn Franson (left) plays tug-of-war with a Wyoming K9 (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

iCI Nation thanks Siegel Jewelers for sponsoring their team, and the Wyoming PD for coordinating the Special Olympics fundraiser.

Kari Lynch Band to perform June 24 at Lamar Park with new “unapologetically authentic” hit songs

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Kari Lynch shares about remaining true to her authentic self as a singer-songwriter – and how that has set KLB apart in the music industry (Courtesy, KLB)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


The Kari Lynch Band (KLB) is returning to Lamar Park on Tuesday, June 24 at 6 p.m. with fan favorites and new songs from their upcoming album, including a new single being released June 27.

Dubbed a “force to be reckoned with,” Kari Lynch isn’t holding back as she prepares to take the stage during Wyoming’s Concerts in the Park second summer performance. The independent artist’s unapologetic authenticity continues to shine through in original music that weaves pop-rock nostalgia with modern singer-songwriter sensibilities – while circumventing mainstream expectations.

“I’ve always done what I believe is best for a song, and I’ve always tried to stay true to the type of music that I want to make outside of what’s popular,” Lynch says. “I’m not trying to make a song go viral, I’m just trying to write a song that I think is going to resonate with people.”

The Kari Lynch Band opens for Toby Keith, August 2021 (Courtesy, KLB)

Alone and imaginative

Though currently residing in Nashville, TN, the young and imaginative Lynch grew up in Clare, MI. A self-professed introvert, Lynch began writing songs and poems at the age of seven as a way to process her emotions.

“As a kid, I just felt really different,” says Lynch. “I always wanted to go off alone and be with my thoughts.”

Lynch’s parents divorced when she was four years old, and she remembers that time as confusing and emotional.

“When you’re a kid, so much of that is so hard to understand,” says Lynch. “I had these huge feelings and I didn’t know where to put them.”

So she put those feelings on paper.

“My natural thing was to go in a corner, or close the door, and sing or write a poem or song,” says Lynch. “Nobody taught me how to do it. It was very much like music chose me.”

The practice of writing has remained constant throughout Lynch’s life when there is something she is trying to understand or process.

“It’s one of the best forms of release.”

Lynch uses her natural gift for storytelling to create songs that resonate with audiences (Courtesy, KLB)

Wildly creative

Lynch’s music career began when she moved to Grand Rapids and formed the Kari Lynch Band. The band has experienced various changes over the past 15 years, but Lynch says she grateful for all of them.

“All the iterations of the Kari Lynch Band have always been the greatest guys, the most talented people,” says Lynch. “I’m so lucky that these musicians rolled into my life and I get to play music with them.”

The artist says keeping friendships and communication as top priorities solidifies KLB members into a cohesive unit.

Creating something real

For Lynch, the most important part of music is connecting with listeners (Courtesy, KLB)

Lynch has never followed mainstream expectations and believes that is why her music stands out to audiences.

Though the songwriter does think about hooks and memorable melodies, her main focus is not writing a hit song. It is writing and telling a story that is honest and real.

“I’m trying to tell the story the way that I think it needs to come out,” Lynch says. “I’m trying to write a song that I think is going to resonate with people.”

And when Lynch releases her final product, it is with zero apologies and zero disclaimers.

“When I put it out in the world, I’m just going to put it out there. I wrote it in a way that feels really good to me, and I really hope it resonates with somebody else. Because at the end of the day, it’s really all about that connection for me.”

Shaking things up

Because Lynch’s songs can be intensely personal and introspective, releasing certain songs to the public is often be a nail-biting experience for the artist.

“It’s always a little scary when you’re sharing something because it’s so vulnerable.”

However, Lynch says that she ultimately feels good about releasing songs that make her nervous because those are the songs listeners relate to the most.

“I’ve found that some of the songs I am most scared to release are the ones people really connect with,” says Lynch. “I think people need real, tangible things like that to connect with sometimes.”

For Lynch, art is not always meant to be easily digestible. “It’s meant to shake things up a bit. It’s meant to make people think a little bit differently about things or feel something maybe they’re struggling to feel.”

The trendy bus

When youth reach out to Lynch about songwriting, the artist urges them to be true to themselves – even if that means going against the flow.

“When you’re younger, you have this inclination to go with the flow and do what everybody else is doing. It’s so easy to do the thing that’s popular.”

Lynch encourages those she meets to be authentic, even if it is not popular (Courtesy, KLB)

However, Lynch continues, authenticity is what shines through.

“Sometimes it takes longer if you’re not doing the popular thing, if you’re not riding the trendy bus. But I really believe that, if you keep doing it, authenticity always shines through.”

And what you create will find an audience.

“There’s somebody out there who needs to hear what you’ve created, and only the way that you create it is going to resonate with them,” says Lynch.

“Any time you’re creating from a place of honesty, it’s going to resonate with somebody.”

Lynch went on to say that she believes people are “aching for things that are real” – herself included.

“I truly want to be myself…I want to sound like Kari Lynch. At the end of the day, trends are trends. Everything has a time, and I’d rather make music that feels timeless or feels like it’s going to stick around than go after certain production notes or drum beats that are popular right now.”

A new season of music   

Lynch is excited to return to the Lamar Park stage, reconnect with fans and share new music. She hopes all concert attendees are able to immerse themselves in the moment and enjoy every aspect of the KLB show experience.

“My favorite thing about making music is truly connecting with people,” Lynch says. “That is what makes all the things about being an independent musician worth it, and I am so thankful for the opportunity to be able to do it.”

The Kari Lynch Band opens for Toby Keith, August 2021 (Courtesy, KLB)

Concert details

Concerts in the Park performances are free and family-friendly.

Food trucks will offer delicious bites available for purchase. Bring a comfy lawn chair or blanket, grab some food, kick back and soak in the tunes!

The complete 2025 Concerts in the Park lineup can be found here.

Wyoming mobile food pantry to be held Monday, June 23

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , , ,
(Courtesy photo)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Wyoming Public Schools (WPS) has partnered with Feeding America Mobile Pantry to host a Mobile Pantry once a month.

*WHS June Mobile Food Pantry will be held Monday, June 23 from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

What to expect

Though the selection of food varies each month, there are always a variety of fresh and frozen items available at the Mobile Pantry.

The Mobile Pantry is drive-thru style, and families are asked to remain in their vehicles for safety.



This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Wyoming-High-School-Mobile-Food-Pantry-Courtesy-WPS-1024x597.jpg
WHS Mobile Food Pantry Map (Courtesy, WPS)


Cars enter at the main entrance to WHS (1350 Prairie Parkway). Volunteers will direct traffic in the parking lot to help with efficiency.

Once in line, a volunteer will approach each car to record the name, address, number of people in the household, and the reason the food is needed for each family. Once a car has reached the front of the line, volunteers will load a box of food into the trunk.

Resources

To learn more about Feeding America West Michigan and the services they offer, click here.

For the Feeding America Mobile Food Pantry schedule, click here.

Consumers Energy crews prepare for severe weather and statewide extreme heat

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kent County, Weather, West Michigan, , ,
(Photo Courtesy, pxhere.com)

By WKTV Staff
greer@wktv.org


With summer heat on the rise and forecasts calling for the potential of severe weather, Consumers Energy has mobilized and begun to position over 485 crews to respond.

“We know how challenging summer weather can be, from heatwaves to sudden storms,” said David Hicks, one of Consumers Energy’s officers in charge for the storm event. “Our crews are ready, and our systems are being monitored around the clock. We will work as quickly and safely as possible to restore any service interruptions.”

Yesterday the company began moving trucks and essential materials, as well as mobile storm units that can move supplies closer to crews, in the areas expected to be hardest hit, including Jackson, Flint, and Grand Rapids. Along with hundreds of crews from Consumers Energy, contract crews from our Midwest partner energy companies have been called in to help.


Severe thunderstorms with the possibility of large hail, damaging winds and tornados are expected to impact much of the southern lower peninsula throughout the evening and into Thursday morning. This weekend, extreme heat is in the forecast statewide. In preparation for the high temperatures and storms, Consumers Energy urges the public to keep these tips in mind:

Storm Safety Tips

  • Stay at least 25 feet away from downed power lines, and to report unguarded downed lines by calling 9-1-1 and Consumers Energy at 800-477-5050.
  • Never use a generator in an attached garage, basement, enclosed patio or near any air intakes. Doing so could cause a generator to produce hazardous levels of carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless and deadly gas. Read more guidance on safe generator use here.
  • Be alert to crews working along roads. Drivers should slow down or stop and wait for oncoming traffic to clear so they safely can go past workers on roadsides.
  • Consumers Energy will trim or remove trees interfering with electric restoration activities. Once safe to do so, clean-up of debris from tree trimming or removal during a storm emergency is the responsibility of individual property owners. 
  • In some cases, the mast that holds the electric service wires to a home or business may have been damaged or torn away. Crews will reconnect the wires to a home, but only a licensed electrician can repair or replace a mast or a cable.

High Temperature Tips

*Make sure to drink lots of water on days leading up to hot weather. Always have fresh water by you while working and playing and avoid drinks with high sugar or caffeine. Being hydrated helps prevent heat-related illness as well as strains and sprains.
*Wear loose-fitting, light-colored, breathable clothing that covers exposed skin.
*When it’s hot, it’s never safe to leave children or pets in a vehicle while it’s parked — even with a window open. Vehicles can reach dangerously hot temperature very quickly. To be cautious, always check to make sure no one is in the car when you leave it.
*If you have to be outside, try to find areas of shade to keep yourself cool from the sun. As a general rule of thumb, it’s better to be outside in the morning and evening times when it’s coolest.

If your home is uncomfortably hot due to no air conditioning, there are public places you can stay cool such as local libraries, shopping malls and community centers. There may even be public cooling centers by you. To find them visit mi211.org and search “cooling centers” with your zip code.

Consumers Energy is Michigan’s largest energy provider, providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.8 million of the state’s 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties. Consumers Energy knows job No. 1 is to keep the lights on for customers. We are committed to delivering reliable, clean and affordable energy to our customers 24/7. 

The Soul Syndicate to provide soulful tunes at Lamar Park performance on June 17

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Local fan favorite, The Soul Syndicate, will take the stage at Park Lamar Park in Wyoming on Tuesday, June 17 at 6 p.m. (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks and Recreation)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


It’s time to put your dancing shoes on! Local fan favorite, The Soul Syndicate, will take the stage at Park Lamar Park in Wyoming on Tuesday, June 17 at 6 p.m. for the first 2025 Concerts in the Park summer performance.

With their sophisticated appearance, masterful musicianship and trademark high-energy performances, the 10-member band will pay tribute to influential funk, soul and R&B artists in a soul-infused entertainment experience designed to keep the audience dancing.

“It’s always a ride playing Wyoming because the crowds are always fantastic; it’s just always fun,” says drummer Tom Taylor.

Soulful sounds from master musicians

The band delivers high-energy performances at every venue (Courtesy, The Soul Syndicate)

Audiences will be treated to the soulful sounds of Mike Coon on guitar and vocals, Matt Fouts on bass, John Neil on keyboard and sounds, Colin Tobin as lead male vocalist, Katie Sarb as lead female vocalist, Tim DenBesten on trumpet and vocals, Nate Hansen and Danny Giacobassi on saxophone, Jeff Carroll on trombone, Tom Taylor on drums, and Eugene Griffith as sound engineer.

No strangers to large events and festival stages, members of The Soul Syndicate deliver a unique sound and crowd-pleasing experience at every venue they visit with their carefully crafted multi-song medleys.

Though soul, funk and R&B genres are musically related with soul and funk often considered sub genres of R&B, it is only in the past five years that The Soul Syndicate has deviated from their original plan of playing pure, classic soul music.

“Eleven years ago the original idea behind the band was really more around being strictly classic soul,” says Taylor. “That late 60s Motown, Stax, Memphis, Philly soul music. We wanted to do something different, something that was unique.”

At the time, pure soul music was unique to the West Michigan area. Though many people enjoyed The Soul Syndicate’s performances, many songs were not well-known and did not generate the excitement band members were hoping for.

So they decided to change it up.

May I have this dance?

“About five years ago we started to think about becoming more of a pure dance band, adding a lot more funk elements, really keeping the popular songs but making it a little funkier,” says Taylor. “Like anything, it’s evolved from there based on audience reaction and some of the events that we started booking.”

The Soul Syndicate’s popularity soared when the band began playing their own arrangements of song medleys. Suddenly, people were coming to see them perform at multiple events and saying they liked the band’s new sound.

And those medleys, Taylor says, keep the audience on the dance floor.

“Folks don’t like breaks,” Taylor says with a laugh. “If they’re on the dance floor, they like to keep going until they get tired.”

The band may tweak the medleys from year to year, but they continue to add more to their playlist.

“We all love playing together and love seeing big crowds dancing. There’s nothing better.”


The Soul Syndicate performs at several venues throughout the year (Courtesy, The Soul Syndicate)

Band growth, awards and playing with stars…

Only half of The Soul Syndicate are original members of the band, but the past decade has brought plenty of growth, talent and new friendships.

“When we started, the horn section was just a trumpet and a saxophone,” says Taylor. “And now we’ve got a four-piece horn section: a trumpet, two saxes, and a trombone.”

Many band members, Taylor included, perform with other groups as well as with The Soul Syndicate. That has provided band members with opportunities to play with nationally known artists such as Hootie and the Blowfish, The Beach Boys, The Temptations, The Guess Who, Natalie Cole, Rosemarie Clooney, Elvis Presley Jr., The US Navy Commodores Band – and more.

“The longer you’ve been doing this, you make a lot of relationships and never know who you’re going to run into in different parts of the area, different parts of the country and different theaters,” says Taylor.

The band’s only original music album won a Jammie Award for Best New Artist during their first year of inception.

They chose to move away from original music, however, due to varying ideas about how important original music was to their shows and a level of audience disinterest when playing lesser-known songs.

“Original music is great but, for us, if someone doesn’t know the song, they may not dance to it,” says Taylor. “They may applaud politely, but then wait for that next well-known song.”


The Soul Syndicate performs at a previous Frederik Meijer Gardens concert (Supplied)

More than just notes on a page

For Taylor, music has always been his escape.

“It takes me away from my corporate job and lets me unwind and just play the drums and drive a large horn band,” says Taylor. “There’s nothing better than that.”

Taylor went on to say that each Soul Syndicate member relates to the feeling of escaping into music they love. And doing it together is an added bonus.

“The members of the band are great friends,” Taylor says. “We get along really well, we collaborate very well together. We all laugh, we have fun.”

And The Soul Syndicate enjoys seeing other people having fun.

“We just love making people happy. We love what we do.”

See the band perform – more than once!

The Soul Syndicate has some pretty cool swag too (Supplied)

The Soul Syndicate is available to play for weddings, corporate events and the festival stage. To reserve the band for an event, click here.

Taylor urges audiences to check out their website for additional summer events.

“Check out our website; all of our dates are posted there,” Taylor says. “We have a lot of public performances in 2025 for people to come see us, especially outdoor concerts.

“We love the support of folks coming out to see us numerous times during the summer.”

Concerts in the Park details

The weekly Concerts in the Park performances are free and family-friendly.

Food trucks will offer delicious bites available for purchase. Bring a comfy lawn chair or blanket, grab some food, kick back and soak in the tunes!

The complete 2025 Concerts in the Park lineup can be found here.

Flights to Detroit Lions away games available through Delta at Ford International Airport

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Kent County, Local Sports, Sports, Travel, West Michigan, , , ,
Delta Airlines. (Photo Courtesy, Delta Airlines)


By WKTV Staff
greer@wktv.org


Detroit Lions fans will now be able to attend select away games thanks to new nonstop flights through Delta Air Lines at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.

The airline announced today it will offer roundtrip tickets to five Lions away games, as well as one University of Michigan away game. Lions season tickets are sold out for 2025-2026 and single tickets are extremely limited, so the move will allow fans to more easily see their beloved team at stadiums across the country.

“We’re excited to offer these flights to fans for what we hope will be another winning season of Lions football,” Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority President and CEO Tory Richardson said. “With home games at Ford Field in high demand, our partners at Delta are making it easier than ever for West Michiganders to catch the Lions in action at five exciting away game destinations. Delta has also added a special opportunity for Wolverines to see their team at an early game in Oklahoma.

“We appreciate Delta’s continued investment in our community and can’t wait to touch down across the country for the Detroit Lions.”

Tickets are on sale at Delta.com for the full lineup, including: 

  • University of Michigan at Oklahoma, departing Sept. 5 returning Sept. 7
  • Detroit Lions at Baltimore Ravens, departing Sept. 22 returning Sept. 23
  • Detroit Lions at Kansas City Chiefs, departing Oct. 11 returning Oct. 13
  • Detroit Lions at Washington Commanders, departing Nov. 8 returning Nov. 10
  • Detroit Lions at Philadelphia Eagles, departing Nov. 15 returning Nov. 17
  • Detroit Lions at Los Angeles Rams, departing Dec. 12 returning Dec. 15

“From kickoff to the final down, Delta is making it easier than ever for Detroit fans to get in on the action – with new, nonstop routes in Grand Rapids and extra capacity for key games,” said Amy Martin – Vice President North America Network Planning. “We know our Michigan customers love their teams, so we have timed these flights to make it faster and easier to get them to the games that matter most.”


Delta recently expanded its connectivity at the Ford International Airport with nonstop service to Orlando International Airport (MCO) starting December 2025. It currently has four additional nonstop flights from the Ford International Airport, connecting travelers to hundreds of destinations across the world.


As the leading global airline, Delta served more than 200 million passengers in 2024 and was recently ranked the No. 1 airline on JUST Capital and CNBC.

WKTV host Yeli Romero wins prestigious Hispanic Businessperson of the Year award

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From Left, Guillermo Cisneros, President and CEO of the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Yeli Romero, Owner of ACCESO VIP GR, holding her Hispanic Businessperson of the Year award at the Chamber’s Annual Awards Gala and Fundraiser May 22, 2025. (Courtesy Photo)

By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
greer@wktv.org


When Yeli Romero was 10 years old, she wore her mom’s high heels and pretended to be a boss.

“I wanted to be glamorous, walk red carpets, and inspire others,” said Romero, who dreamt of being on TV or radio as a youngster. “I used to call radio stations just to hear my name on air; it made me feel seen.

“Today, I’m proud to be that voice for others. My dream is to one day be a host on Univision.”

That young boss in her mom’s high heels grew up to accomplish many of her dreams…and much more. 



Romero recently won the Hispanic Businessperson of the Year award from the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce at its Annual Awards Gala and Fundraiser held May 22. The Gala celebrates the award winners and the rich Hispanic culture in West Michigan, according to the Chamber’s Website.


“It’s a milestone that proves hard work, consistency and passion truly pay off. This award recognizes commitment to community, leadership and entrepreneurial impact. I believe my years of service in both business and media, my advocacy work, and my efforts to support underrepresented communities through bilingual media contributed to this recognition.

“When I found out I had won the Hispanic Businessperson of the Year award, I cried tears of joy,” said Romero, who graduated from Adelante High School in Grand Rapids in 2002, which has since closed. “It was an incredibly emotional moment. I felt seen, celebrated and uplifted by my community. This award isn’t just for me — it’s for every person who has supported me and every client who has believed in my work.”


Romero was nominated for this award by Deena Scianimanico, Membership and Events Manager at the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.


“I nominated Yeli Romero because she is a constant presence in our community,” Scianimanico said. “Whether she’s serving as a mistress of ceremonies, leading Zumba sessions, advocating for important causes, or conducting interviews; she is everywhere. She’s amazing on social media, with a vibrant personality and impeccable sense of style.

“I often see her at the Hispanic Chamber, providing one-on-one business coaching and actively taking advantage of the benefits we offer. She also sets aside intentional time to work on herself and her business, not just the daily grind. That kind of boundary-setting and commitment to personal growth is rare and so important. She’s an inspiration and a powerful example of how to prioritize self-development while staying deeply engaged in the community.”


Yeli Romero, Host of WKTV Soundbites en Espanol.

WKTV Soundbites en Espanol Host Yeli Romero. (Photo Courtesy, ACCESO VIP Jesus Gomez)

Her business, ACCESO VIP GR, began as a radio segment she and her husband hosted on La Mejor GR, where they conducted interviews and shared community events and business promotions, thanks, she said, to the opportunity given to them by Chuy Morales.

“Our passion for promoting businesses quickly became evident, and we realized we loved the promotional work even more than hosting,” Romero explained. “What started as a hobby became our full-time business.

“Today, ACCESO VIP is a full-service bilingual marketing company offering everything in one place: social media management, digital marketing, graphic design, photography, video production, radio, TV, newspaper advertising, and printing. The name means “VIP Access” because we believe every client and follower deserves that VIP experience.”

She created the business after seeing the need for culturally relevant marketing where Latino business owners could find all services in one trusted space, and thanks to her strong network, she was able to integrate services into customized marketing packages.

ACCESO VIP has more than 500 clients, including Independent Bank, Downtown Grand Rapids Inc., Puertas Abiertas, Roosevelt Park Neighborhood Association, the Hispanic Center of Western Michigan, Meijer, the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, SpringGR, Bethany Christian Services, LAUP, Tri-Cities Puentes Initiative, Southwest Business Association, and The Other Way Ministries. 

“We help them grow their presence, amplify their mission, and connect with both Spanish- and English-speaking communities,” said Romero, who has promoted more than 3,000 events through culturally relevant marketing. 

Yeli Romero, Owner of ACCESO VIP GR, and husband Jesus Gomez.



Her team consists of her husband Jesus Gomez, along with a collaboration of talented designers, photographers and creatives. 

“And we love mentoring interns and providing them real-world marketing experiences. Many have gone on to work with larger companies, and we’re proud to have been a stepping stone in their professional journey.”

Born in Mexico, Romero moved to Grand Rapids when she was 16 years old.





“I come from a hardworking family and was raised alongside my siblings, Juan Manuel and Elivira Romero, by parents who always encouraged us to be strong and dream big,” she said. “I’m now happily married to Jesús Gómez, and we have two wonderful sons, Isaid and Jael, who are my pride and joy.”

Before launching ACCESO VIP, she worked at many different places, including as a general manager/sales person/event coordinator/radio host at 93.3 FM La Poderosa, as a sales manager/radio host/event coordinator/voice-over artist at La Mejor GR and as a radio host at Alegría Latina 92.7 FM.

“I found my passion at the La Poderosa radio station,” Romero said. “Though I started as a secretary, my role soon grew to involve more tasks, including promotional and fundraising activities. During this phase, I discovered that I enjoyed being involved with my community and the importance of being part of making an impact.”

WKTV Soundbites en Espanol Host Yeli Romero. (Photo Courtesy, ACCESO VIP Jesus Gomez)

A certified Zumba instructor since 2017, Romero teaches wellness and fitness classes. 


“I previously taught at the YMCA and for the City of Grand Rapids,” she said. “Now, I focus on private sessions for organizations and companies, including Steelcase, Rockford Construction, The Other Way Ministries and the West Michigan Hispanic Center.”

Finding time for more passions

Romero also holds many community leadership roles, including the manager of both the Southwest Business Association and Roosevelt Park Neighborhood Farmers Market, and the Wellness Advocate and Social Media Manager of Puertas Abiertas.

“I help amplify their mission, support survivors of domestic violence and trauma, and manage their online presence,” said Romero of Puertas Abiertas.


Grand Rapids Community College has played a major role in her professional and personal growth.

“I consider myself a lifelong learner,” said Romero, who’s pursuing a marketing degree at GRCC. “I love education and believe in learning something new every day.”

A personal story: Alopecia Universalis

While in high school, she was diagnosed with alopecia universalis, a condition that causes total body hair loss, including on the scalp, and a severe form of alopecia areata, “a condition where the immune system attacks hair follicles,” according to Wikipedia.

“Losing all my hair was one of the most painful experiences of my life,” Romero explains. “This started when I was still in high school. That time in my life was very stressful as an immigrant new to this country trying to finish high school away from family and friends. 

“I struggled for many years with myself and my beliefs. I suffered from bullying for many years and issues with confidence and feeling like I couldn’t share my story even with my family. Even though this was an obstacle for me, I didn’t let it stop me from learning and finding my passion. I continued to grow and find my place in the community. 

“Eventually, my confidence grew and I was finally able to share my story with my community in 2021. I kept it a secret for 19 years; even while building my businesses.

“In 2021, I decided to share my story publicly and began advocating for others. I’ve raised funds to buy wigs, taught Zumba classes without my wig (out of state), and have spoken out to educate others. I want people to know they are not alone or less worthy.

“It’s important to raise awareness: please don’t touch our heads, and be mindful when someone wears a wig; it means more than most people realize. Small acts of kindness make a big difference.”


WKTV Soundbites en Espanol Host Yeli Romero. (Photo Courtesy, ACCESO VIP Jesus Gomez)


Two more important passions

As a radio host at WYCE 88.1, where she hosts El Mundo Musical, Despertando con Yeli every Saturday morning, this positive show features Latino music, interviews, community resources and event announcements.

The other one takes place here at WKTV. As a TV host of Soundbites en Español, she informs and empowers the Latino community.

“I proposed the idea, assembled a great team, and we now cover topics like health, immigration, finances, sports, education and more.”


WKTV Soundbites en Espanol Host Yeli Romero out with the WKTV Truck. (Photo Courtesy, ACCESO VIP Jesus Gomez)


Proudest career achievement?

“Helping people feel seen.”


“When someone tells me, ‘Yeli, your show helped me do something important,’ that fills me with pride. My work is about service and connection.”

Biggest passion?

“Empowering my community,” Romero said. “Promoting access to resources. Helping women, business owners and youth believe in themselves.”

WKTV Soundbites en Espanol Host Yeli Romero out in the community. (Photo Courtesy, ACCESO VIP Jesus Gomez)

Favorite thing outside work?

“Going to the gym and relaxing in the steam room. It’s my time to reset. I believe that mental and physical health are essential to face the world. 

“I also love spending quality time with my family.”

When did I realize my strength?

“In 2009, during a St. Jude Children’s Hospital training. Watching those children fight for their lives reminded me that if they could be strong, so could I. That year, we raised $50,000 in a radio-a-thon.
 
“It changed my life.”

Ultimate dream?

“To become a national TV host on Univision, continuing to advocate for my community on a broader stage.”

Handling obstacles?

“I face them head-on; with faith, resilience and a growth mindset. If I don’t have the answer, I ask for help, find solutions and transform challenges into opportunities.


“God is a very important factor in my life. I feel like at moments in my life I lost faith, but that has made my faith even stronger because of all the opportunities he has presented to me. My family has also been an important part of my life in supporting me and encouraging me in a hard time.” 

Kent District Library’s Summer Wonder program to take readers on a journey of reading and learning activities

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Summer Wonder brings participants a spectacular summer of outdoor discovery, scavenger hunts, reading, STEAM activities – and lots of fun for everyone (Courtesy, KDL)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Summer Wonder’s “WonderFold” contains a tracking log for participants (Courtesy, KDL)

Kent District Library is taking readers on a Summer Wonder journey of reading, learning and experiencing!

The Summer Wonder challenge is designed for multiple learning styles and abilities to keep readers of all ages engaged and inspired. The program brings participants a spectacular summer of outdoor discovery, scavenger hunts, reading, STEAM activities – and lots of fun for everyone.

Summer Wonder is a great opportunity to limit the “summer slide” that negatively affects learning between the end and start of the traditional school year. Extensive research shows that children involved in summertime reading programs sponsored by public libraries are more likely to maintain their academic skills.

Participate in Summer Wonder, running from June 2 – Aug. 8, by picking up a Wonderlog at any KDL branch or signing up online at kdl.beanstack.org. It is free and includes adventures and prizes for all ages.

“Earning prizes for reading and having fun – what could be better?” said Leigh Verburg, Branch Programming and Outreach Specialist. “Summer Wonder includes stories, activities and discovery for all ages, so sign up together and let the fun begin!”

More free summer programs!

KDL offers a great line-up of free summer programs and presenters including singing, magic, animals, puppets, STEAM activities and more. For a complete listing, visit kdl.org/events.

For more information on the Summer Wonder program, visit kdl.org/summer. 

Local siblings share tragedy of losing brother on USS Indianapolis during WWII

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Siblings David Payne and Suzanna Green shared the tragedy of losing their brother George David Payne on the USS Indianapolis after 77 years. (WKTV)

By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
greer@wktv.org


Editor’s Note: WKTV is reposting this unique, local story in honor of George David Payne and all United States veterans.


The weeks leading up to the sinking of the USS Indianapolis during a top secret mission in WWII, 17-year-old sailor George David Payne mailed two letters home from the ship.


Some 77 years after his brother tragically died on that ship off the coast of Japan, Sparta resident David Payne still gets extremely emotional reading those last letters.

“I get choked up when I read that last letter,” said David, who never met George David. “From my understanding he was a quiet, nice kid. I’ve never heard anything bad about him.”


Below is an excerpt from one of the two final letters from George David Payne (Seaman 2nd Class):


One of the two letters Wyoming sailor George David Payne sent home just weeks before the USS Indianapolis sank off the coast of Japan on July 30, 1945. (Courtesy, David Payne)

Dear Mom, Dad and Kids,

I hope this letter finds all of you in the best of health. I feel pretty good myself.

Tell dad and all the kids I said hi. Tell Jean the same. I suppose you are having quite a time with the kids. 

Tell grandma and grandpa I said hello. Boy, I’ll sure be glad when I get another leave, but I shouldn’t start thinking about a leave already.

I suppose it is pretty nice weather in Michigan now. Anyway, it should be summer. Well, I’ll have to say so long for now.
 
Love to all the family, 

George David Payne

Tragedy strikes shortly after letters sent home

Tragically, not long after the letters were sent, torpedoes from the Japanese submarine I-58 sank the USS Indianapolis to the bottom of the Western Pacific Ocean within minutes on July 30, 1945.

Only 316 men survived

An estimated 300 men died aboard the ship, while nearly 900 sailors abandoned it, leading to several days of fighting off sharks, dehydration and injuries. Only 316 survived.

Top secret mission delivering atomic bomb components for use on Hiroshima

On a top secret mission that began in San Francisco, the Indianapolis successfully delivered atomic bomb components to Tinian Island. The components delivered were used in the atomic bomb (Little Boy) that the United States dropped on Hiroshima on Aug. 6, 1945.

USS Indianapolis in its prime. (U.S. Naval History and Heritage Command Archives)

“Many are familiar with Captain Quint’s retelling of the ship’s story in the 1975 film, “Jaws.” Few, however, understand the far-reaching impact of the incident and the tremendous amount of documentation and research conducted in the wake of the incident that continues to impact how the Navy operates today,” according to the Naval History and Heritage Command Communication and Outreach Division.



George David Payne is remembered by two siblings (David Payne and Suzanna Green) in a WKTV interview last summer (2022). July 30, 2023, marked the 78th anniversary of the sinking of the Indianapolis.

Siblings Jim and Cherie Payne, and mom Lillian Payne at their home: 305 Murray St., Wyoming, in 1945. (David Payne)


“I wasn’t born yet when George died,” David continued. “I didn’t realize I had a brother that died in the war until I was seven. In the early fifties, there was a program on TV showing the Japanese sinking that ship and my mother Lillian started crying and said your brother was on that ship.”

While recently looking at a photo of his brother Jim, Mom Lillian and sister Cherie (dated June 20, 1945) enjoying a happy day on the front porch, David said it soon turned tragic about a month later with the death of his brother on July 30, 1945.

David said his brother George David wasn’t old enough to sign up for the war so his dad signed the necessary paperwork in 1945 to let him join the Navy.


A short stint on the ship

“He was only on that ship for two weeks,” said David, age 75, who’s lived in Sparta for over 30 years. “I had an older brother in California (Nick Alberts, from his mother’s previous marriage), and he met him out there. George stayed for Nick’s wedding in California, and then got transferred to the USS Indianapolis.”

David said Nick, a member of the Seabees in California at the time, blamed himself for George’s fate.

“My little buddy”

USS Indianapolis Seaman 2nd Class George David Payne. (Naval History and Heritage Command Archives)

“He blamed himself for getting him transferred and going to the wedding,” said David, as he cried explaining the sad details. “He always called George ‘my little buddy,’ and said, ‘I can’t come home without my little buddy.’”

Because of that lingering guilt, David said his big brother Nick didn’t return home for 15 years.

“He had guilt, but did finally come home in the late fifties when I was 14 years old,” David continued. “Nick left a book on the Indianapolis with me.”

Most of the 12 siblings (seven girls, five boys) grew up on 305 Murray Street in Wyoming and attended Kelloggsville High School.

Providing after death

Many of them experienced the Great Depression. And it wasn’t lost on any family member how far George’s Navy death gratuity went to pay for their necessities.

“Our mother bought our school clothes and everything we needed from that check, it helped out our family so much,” said David, born on September 17, 1945, less than two months after the Indianapolis sank. “Both mom and dad got 20 or 30 dollars a month from George’s death.”

Gruesome shark attack stories

David Payne honoring and remembering his brother George David at a USS Indianapolis memorial in 1995 in Indy. (Courtesy, David Payne)

During a USS Indianapolis memorial event held in Indianapolis in 1995, David learned firsthand about the tragedy from several survivors.

“Through the years, we didn’t talk about it much and we were hoping he wasn’t trapped in the ship or killed by sharks,” said David, who attended with his wife Mary and sister Suzanna Green.

“Some of the guys relayed the terrible stories, talking about sharks dragging away their friends. It must have been hell.”

He said nearly 200 sailors attended, and recalls some talking about the gruesome shark attacks.

“I remember one guy’s account saying he heard a fellow sailor’s last word’s while getting dragged off by a shark, he screamed for his mother, and David imagined his brother George screaming for mom as well, as he cried retelling his memorial experience with survivors.

“There were some terrible stories. They had to go through hell.”

A “wonderful guy”

Green said George David was “kind-hearted, and definitely cared about his country. My mother cried over his death all of her life and made sure all of us knew we had a brother George David. He was a good kid.”

Green, who also attended the 1995 Indianapolis memorial, recalls the heavy emotions of the event.

“We went there because it was in his memory,” said Green, who taught for 30 years in the Grand Rapids Public School system. “And it was very emotional when we found his name on the monument. Dave put Mary on his shoulders and she put a piece of paper up there and she scratched it with a pencil.”


A proud celebration of life and service

Siblings David, Suzanna and Margie Payne at home on 305 Murray St. in Wyoming in the late 40s. (David Payne)

“It made me feel real close to the brother that I never saw,” Green continued.


“I knew him, but never saw him. I was very proud that his name was there and that he was remembered. It was a celebration of his life and his service.”


Green said their faith got her through the tragedy.


“Mom read the bible every day,” Green explained. “I love him like I grew up with him and that’s because my mother kept his memory alive.”


“We love him even though we didn’t ever get to meet him. And he still is well loved.”

Navy changes status

The Navy officially changed the status of George David and 12 other sailors lost when the Indianapolis was sunk in 1945 from “unaccounted for” to “buried at sea,” Navy Casualty announced on May 27, 2022.

The change in status is the result of extensive research between Naval History and Heritage Command, Navy Casualty Office, the USS Indianapolis Survivors Association, the USS Indianapolis Legacy Organization, and the Chief Rick Stone and Family Charitable Foundation.

The announcement helps bring closure to the families of these sailors who lost their lives at the end of a secret mission which helped end World War II.

Remembering George David through his clothing

At age 12, David found one of George’s Navy peacoats.

“I put it on and came upstairs and asked mom if I could have it,” he recalled.

His brother James would put on his Navy uniform occasionally.

A friend’s dad and Battle of the Bulge veteran from World War II, James Emanouil, age 97 at the time of the original article, used to spar with George David in the early forties at a local gym in Grand Rapids.

“I think George David wanted to join this war because of James and Nick.”

Service to the country goes way, way back

David’s fascination with genealogy led to a discovery of another young veteran from long ago. He learned that a great, great, great grandparent fought in the American Revolution at age 15, Eli Payne, Sr. His 100-year-old aunt, at the time, gave David a charcoal drawing of this relative.

Captain Charles B. McVay III

Captain Charles B. McVay III, commander of the USS Indianapolis. (Naval History and Heritage Command Archives)

Per the Naval History and Heritage Command website, “Captain McVay was court-martialed in the aftermath of the sinking and found guilty of recklessly endangering his crew by failing to zig-zag, in spite of I-58 Captain Mochitsura Hashimoto’s testimony at the trial stating that such maneuvers would not have changed the outcome of his attack. The conviction effectively ruined McVay’s career. It was controversial at the time and remains so today.” (Hashimoto was the Japanese submarine commander that sank the USS Indianapolis.) 

“McVay had a distinguished naval career prior to the loss of the Indianapolis. He served as Executive Officer of the USS Cleveland during the North African landings in November 1942 and earned a Silver Star for his actions aboard the same ship in the Solomon Islands in March 1943.”

After his death, McVay was exonerated by United States President Bill Clinton and the 106th Congress in 2000. Captain McVay committed suicide on November 6, 1968.


The bold paragraphs below are excerpts from survivor Captain Charles B. McVay’s detailed “Oral History – The Sinking of USS Indianapolis”

This is all documented in the Naval History and Heritage Command Archives. For a complete account of “Recollections of Captain Charles B. McVay, III,” visit here.

Captain McVay:

Commander Flynn


Executive officer [second in command on the ship] came up, Commander Flynn, and said, “We are definitely going down and I suggest that we abandon ship.” Well, knowing Flynn and having utter regard for his ability, I then said, “Pass the word to abandon ship.”

Dividing up rations floating at sea

I looked over the material that we had, the food stuffs, and told the people that I would open one Hormel tin per day. It contains 12 ounces and we would divide that evenly, and I also figured out each person could have two biscuits and two malted milk tablets, which I knew would last us about ten days.

Attacked by sharks

We had sharks, or rather they had sharks down there [in the life preserver group]. We know that because we have two survivors who were bitten by sharks and as I told this one boy in the hospital. I said, “You’d better take some castellan paint and put on that thing before it heals up because nobody will ever believe you’ve been bitten by a shark. You might as well outline the teeth mark and you will have it for the rest of your life and can say, `I know I was bitten by a shark.'”

USS Ringness to the rescue

The (USS) Ringness picked us up by radar. We had a 40 mm, empty ammunition can which I had spent a good deal of energy and time trying to get to, thinking it was an emergency ration, but we picked it up anyhow and saved it and she [Ringness] got a [radar] pip from this can. 

I think we had lost probably about 15% of our weight and I was naturally so elated to get on the ship, as were the others that we didn’t turn in at all. We were given something to eat, ice cream, coffee, such as that. The doctor said, “You can eat all you want,” which most of us did. We drank quite a bit of water.

Live music: Wyoming announces Concerts in the Park lineup

2-row, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Local Food, Music, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , , , , ,
Get ready for a summer of live music! (Courtesy photo)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org
May 23, 2025



Get ready for an unforgettable summer of live music! Beginning June 17, residents are invited to Lamar Park on Tuesdays at 6 p.m. for a free concert.

Food trucks will offer delicious bites available for purchase. Bring a comfy lawn chair or blanket, grab some food, kick back and soak in the tunes!

Concerts in the Park 2025 Lineup:

June 17 – The Soul Syndicate

(Photo courtesy of Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)

June 24 – Kari Lynch Band

(Photo courtesy of Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)

July 8 – Jesse Ray and the Carolina Catfish

(Photo courtesy of Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)

July 15 – The Insiders

(Photo courtesy of Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)

July 22 – Phabies

(Photo courtesy of Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)

July 29 – Project 90

(Photo courtesy of Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)

Splash pads are now open at Wyoming parks

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Environment, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Our Cities, Recreation, Weather, , , , ,
Beat the heat at splash pads at local Wyoming parks (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks & Rec)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org
May 23, 2025


Get ready to beat the heat — Wyoming parks have officially opened their splash pads for the summer!

Grab your swimsuits, sunscreen, and smiles, and cool off with family and friends. Splash pads are open 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. daily. To turn on, gently tap the activators with your hand or foot.

Find a splash pad near you and start making sunny memories today!

Splash pads are located at:

📍 Lamar Park (2561 Porter St.)

📍 Oriole Park (1380 42nd St. SW)

📍 Jackson Park (3235 Robin St. SW)

📍 Gezon Park (5651 Gezon Ct.)

📍 Southlawn Park (4125 Jefferson St.)

Wyoming mobile food pantry to be held TUESDAY, May 27 due to holiday weekend

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , ,
WHS May Mobile Food Pantry will be held Tuesday, May 27 from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. due to the holiday weekend (Courtesy photo)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Wyoming Public Schools (WPS) has partnered with Feeding America Mobile Pantry to host a Mobile Pantry once a month.

*WHS May Mobile Food Pantry will be held Tuesday, May 27 from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. due to the holiday weekend.

What to expect

Though the selection of food varies each month, there are always a variety of fresh and frozen items available at the Mobile Pantry.

The Mobile Pantry is drive-thru style, and families are asked to remain in their vehicles for safety.



This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Wyoming-High-School-Mobile-Food-Pantry-Courtesy-WPS-1024x597.jpg
WHS Mobile Food Pantry Map (Courtesy, WPS)


Cars enter at the main entrance to WHS (1350 Prairie Parkway). Volunteers will direct traffic in the parking lot to help with efficiency.

Once in line, a volunteer will approach each car to record the name, address, number of people in the household, and the reason the food is needed for each family. Once a car has reached the front of the line, volunteers will load a box of food into the trunk.

Resources

To learn more about Feeding America West Michigan and the services they offer, click here.

For the Feeding America Mobile Food Pantry schedule, click here.

NEWLY RELEASED: WKTV’s Friday Night Highlights Golden Gloves action PART 2

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kent County, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, , , ,


By Cris Greer
Managing Editor/Sports Director
greer@wktv.org


WKTV Hosts Bob Serulla and Jordan Shimmell (former Golden Gloves champion) walk you through the Michigan Golden Gloves Championships from the West Michigan Finals through the State Finals at Aquinas College in this exciting Friday Night Highlights Golden Gloves edition PART 2.


Five-time Michigan Golden Gloves champion Junior Rios joins in on the play-by-play analysis as well.


PART 2 features the best bouts of the Championships, boxer interviews, and a look inside the MGGA (Michigan Golden Gloves Association) Boxing Gym. You’ll want to watch every bit of this boxing show.


Our WKTV Truck crew got great highlights of the Golden Gloves Championships just for you!


Take a look at Part 1 of our WKTV FNH Golden Gloves Edition HERE.


Look for more great WKTV Golden Gloves coverage in the future!

Buck Creek Nature Preserve is springing forth with fresh blossoms and energetic critters!

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Environment, Going Local, Kent County, Our Cities, Pets/Animals, Recreation, , , ,

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Check out these signs of spring at the local Buck Creek Nature Preserve in Wyoming!

During a walk through Buck Creek’s Nature Preserve, this energetic squirrel – let’s call him Sebastian – played peek-a-boo for a several minutes before WKTV’s managing editor Deborah Reed managed to capture his mischievous antics on camera.

While dandelions are often thought of as a nuisance and nothing more than a common weed. However, they are also viewed as symbols of hope, freedom, and transformation.

It is said that when the seeds of a dandelion are blown away, your wish is carried into the wind and into the universe. Read more here!

This shy deer was munching on grass when Reed walked closer than expected. The doe and managing editor contemplated each other for several seconds before the deer wandered away with two other family members.

Colorful flowers are springing forth amidst the grass, on bushes and along tree branches. Some of those blossoms have begun transforming into leaves that will remain through the summer months.

Small turtles can often be found sunning themselves in the pond near the start of Buck Creek’s walking trail located off Burlingame Avenue.

Growths of fungus called shelf or bracket fungi, related to puffballs and mushrooms, can be found adorning some nature preserve tree trunks.

A group of adult geese ushered their goslings around the nature preserve while side-eyeing Reed to make sure the managing editor did not wander too close.

WKTV’s Friday Night Highlights Golden Gloves action; PART 1

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kent County, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, ,
WKTV Hosts Bob Serulla (left) and Jordan Shimmell are joined by boxer Junior Rios.



By Cris Greer
Managing Editor/Sports Director
greer@wktv.org


WKTV Hosts and Boxing Announcers Bob Serulla and Jordan Shimmell walk you through the Michigan Golden Gloves Championships from the West Michigan Finals through the State Finals in this exciting Friday Night Highlights Golden Gloves edition PART 1.


PART 1 features the best bouts of the Championships, some boxer interviews, a look inside the La Casa Boxing Club, including a chat with owner Anbrocio Ledesma, and an interview with guest boxer Junior Rios. You’ll want to watch every bit of this show.


Our WKTV Truck crew got great highlights of the Golden Gloves Championships just for you. Part 2 will be available soon. Stay tuned!


Look for more great WKTV Golden Gloves coverage in the future!

Check out these Metro Cruise Dust Off photos from last Saturday at the Wyoming Moose Lodge

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kent County, Upcoming Events, West Michigan
  • Metro Cruise Dust Off 2024. (Photos Courtesy, Metro Cruise and Tom De Vette Photography)
  • Metro Cruise Dust Off 2024. (Photos Courtesy, Metro Cruise and Tom De Vette Photography)
  • Metro Cruise Dust Off 2024. (Photos Courtesy, Metro Cruise and Tom De Vette Photography)
  • Metro Cruise Dust Off 2024. (Photos Courtesy, Metro Cruise and Tom De Vette Photography)
  • Metro Cruise Dust Off 2024. (Photos Courtesy, Metro Cruise and Tom De Vette Photography)
  • Metro Cruise Dust Off 2024. (Photos Courtesy, Metro Cruise and Tom De Vette Photography)
  • Metro Cruise Dust Off 2024. (Photos Courtesy, Metro Cruise and Tom De Vette Photography)
  • Metro Cruise Dust Off 2024. (Photos Courtesy, Metro Cruise and Tom De Vette Photography)
  • Metro Cruise Dust Off 2024. (Photos Courtesy, Metro Cruise and Tom De Vette Photography)
  • Metro Cruise Dust Off 2024. (Photos Courtesy, Metro Cruise and Tom De Vette Photography)



By WKTV Staff
greer@wktv.org



Take a look at these cool photos from the Metro Cruise Dust Off from last Saturday’s event at the Wyoming Moose Lodge.



Photos courtesy of Metro Cruise and Tom De Vette Photography.



For more information and a list of upcoming events visit Metro Cruise.


Sunday Night Funnies seventh annual Kingpin of Comedy competition begins May 11

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, , , , ,
The Kingpin of Comedy stand-up comedy show runs weekly from May 11 – Oct. 19 at Spectrum Entertainment Complex (Courtesy, Brian B.)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


The Sunday Night Funnies (SNF) seventh annual Kingpin of Comedy competition begins Sunday, May 11.

The Kingpin of Comedy stand-up comedy show runs weekly from May 11-Oct. 19 at Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming.

“Seeing that Wyoming is the 14th largest city in Michigan, I thought it deserved its own stand-up comedy competition with the overall winner getting a prize package worthy of the title: The Funniest Person in Wyoming,” said SNF founder, Brian B.

The Kingpin of Comedy will receive a prize package over $1,000 in value – including $500 cash (Courtesy, Brian B.)

That prize package includes $500 cash, Kingpin of Comedy bowling pin trophy, personalized Kingpin bowling shirt and the opportunity to close the SNF LaughFest show in 2026. Additional prizes from Spectrum Entertainment Complex, GLC Live at 20 Monroe and Gilda’s Club of Grand Rapids LaughFest round out the total prize package to over $1,000 in value.

More information about SNF and the seventh annual Kingpin of Comedy competition can be found here.

(Courtesy, Brian B.)

About SNF

The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. The weekly live stand-up comedy performance is free admission and features a variety of local and national comics. Now in its 16th year, over 1,275 different comedians have entertained SNF audiences. Each show begins at 7:30 p.m. (winter/spring) and 8:30 p.m. (summer/early fall) at Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming.

“Cinderella’s Ball”: 80 local seniors attend senior prom hosted by Care Resources

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, medical moment, Mental Health, Recreation, Senior Living, West Michigan, , , , , , , ,
Care Resources recently hosted its own “senior prom” for program participants, ages 55 years and older, at its Grand Rapids facility. (WKTV Journal / Jaylah Lewis)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Care Resources recently hosted its own “senior prom” for program participants, ages 55 years and older, at its Grand Rapids facility.

“Cinderella’s Ball” was the culmination of a month of princess-themed recreational programming that included Disney movies and a royal tea party. Attended by approximately 80 seniors, the event featured cupcakes, punch, music – and the crowning of a prom king and queen.

The purpose?

While fun is at the top of the list, Recreational Therapist Sabrina Cusenza says there are great health benefits to activities like “Cinderella’s Ball.”

“Our main goal is to bring joy to our participants and staff, who will also get dressed up and join the fun,” Cusenza says. “But there are functional aspects of programs like this that support participants’ health and well-being.

“Our participants will get physical activity in through the dancing. The socialization is great for emotion well-being. We’ll also incorporate some reminiscing about prom, which has cognitive and mental health benefits.”

Learn more!

A local community-based program of all-inclusive care for the elderly, Care Resources promotes healthy, independent living and helps prevent nursing home placement. Care Resources staff regularly provide entertainment via events and programs that also support participants’ health and well-being.

Learn more about all Care Resources has to offer here.

Floyd Mayweather Sr. sparks Siderio Mitchell to first Golden Gloves state title Saturday; East Kentwood boxers keep winning tradition alive

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Golden Gloves, Kent County, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, , , ,
Siderio Mitchell, mentored by Floyd Mayweather Sr., captured his first Golden Gloves state championship. 2025 (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
greer@wktv.org

Two years ago, East Kentwood High School graduate and current professional boxer Justin Lacey-Pierce was winding down his amateur career with a Michigan Golden Gloves state championship. Last Saturday evening at Aquinas College, a pair of East Kentwood graduates stepped up and carried on Lacey-Pierce’s Golden Gloves legacy by winning state championships at the 2025 Michigan Golden Gloves state championships.

Ontess Toliver-James and Aiden Baker of East Kentwood were two of the newly-minted state champions at the state finals that took place at the Sturrus Sports and Fitness Center on the campus of Aquinas College.



East Kentwood graduate Ontess Toliver-James (center, with trophy) celebrates his Golden Gloves win with coaches and staff from Blues Gym. 2025 (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



Toliver-James, boxing out of Blues Gym, located at 4248 Kalamazoo Ave. Se, won his title in the 176-pound Elite Novice Division. Coming out strong from the opening bell, Toliver-James took control of the bout with Zameer Rawls-Wallace as he peppered his opponent with body shots in the early going. The constant barrage of punches paid off in the second round when the referee stopped the contest. Toliver-James who reached the finals after winning his semifinal match the day before, came out with a little different plan for his title match.

“Yesterday I tired myself out,” Toliver-James said. “I was throwing too much so I slowed myself down and paced myself a little bit. I read my opponent and picked my punches.”

The win was his third in three bouts which is even more impressive considering that Toliver-James has only been training for boxing and picked up the sport just four weeks ago.

“I feel like anything is possible,” Toliver-James said. “I’m going to train hard and hopefully keep going along undefeated and get some more trophies under my belt.”

Toliver-James played football and basketball growing up, but just decided to start boxing a little over a month ago. He also knows about the Kentwood boxing legacy and especially about the accomplishments in the ring of Lacey-Pierce.

“I actually went to school with him (Lacey-Pierce)” Toliver-James said. “I was in school with him since elementary school. That’s actually another one of my motivations. I just recently saw a couple of posts of him on Facebook. Man, he’s doing good in the pros.”

In the next bout Kentwood’s second boxer, Aiden Baker, stepped into the ring and also brought home a state championship. Boxing in the 198-plus Elite Novice weight class, Baker defeated Santorie Jenkins of Team Boss when the referee stopped the contest in the third round.



East Kentwood graduate Aiden Baker won the 198-pound title at the Golden Gloves State Championships. 2025 (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



Baker, who won a West Michigan title last month, kept constant pressure on Jenkins from the opening bell and wore his opponent down with a steady barrage of punches. This year’s Golden Gloves was the first of his career for Baker who began boxing three years ago.

“I started training at MGGA (Michigan Golden Gloves Association gym, Grand Rapids) and they essentially built me from scratch,” Baker said. “My older brother taught me how to fight and then eventually I went into the gym. From there, I just started to fall in love with the sport and take it seriously.”



Floyd Mayweather Sr. sparks Siderio Mitchell to state title

A Grand Rapids boxer with a famous relative claimed one of those open division titles. Siderio Mitchell of MGGA Grand Rapids captured the 141-pound Open Division title with a decision against King Gildersleve of Flint Town Boxing Club. Displaying lightning hand quickness and excellent footwork, Mitchell won his first state title in a fashion that was sure to make his mentor Floyd Mayweather Sr. proud. 

“I’d say a little bit of everything was working great for me tonight,” Mitchell said. “Shout out to coaches, shout out to my Uncle Floyd (Sr.), shout out to my family, they mean everything to me. My Uncle Floyd actually got me started in boxing.” 

Comstock Park grad Emanuel Jimenez wins state title at 143 pounds

Toliver-James was not the only boxer out of Blues Gym that captured a state title. In the first bout of the evening, Emanuel Jimenez, a student at Comstock Park High School, won the 143-pound Junior Novice title when the referee stopped the contest in the second round against Carter Cobb of MGGA.

Jimenez, who just turned 18 years old, began training for the Golden Gloves six months ago at Blue Gym. A fan of Mexican boxing champion Canelo Alvarez, Jimenez fought in a style that would’ve made Alvarez proud as he came out aggressively throwing punches and didn’t stop until the referee stepped in during the second round. The match was the second of Jimenez’s young career as he won his first bout during Friday’s semifinals.

“To be honest I was very nervous,” Jimenez said, “but I just went out there and did my job. I did a better job of pacing myself in this bout. My first fight I just came out swinging, but this time I did a better job of pacing myself.”  



Blues Gym head trainer Dino Newville congratulates Emanuel Jimenez on his Golden Gloves title. 2025 (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)


Santiago wins state crown at 187-pound Elite Novice

Floyd Santiago of MGGA Grand Rapids won the 187-pound Elite Novice title in a walkover.

Also winning titles in the Elite Novice Division were Mohammad Aliyar of Kalamazoo United, who won the 143-pound Elite Novice title, Hussam Ammar of Saginaw Boxing club (165-pound Elite Novice champion), and United States Navy veteran Nathaniel Williams of AAA boxing club (154-pound Elite Novice title).

A pair of Grand Rapids-area boxers claimed state titles in the open division.

Floyd Mayweather Sr. sparks Siderio Mitchell to state title;

A Grand Rapids boxer with a famous relative claimed one of those open division titles. Siderio Mitchell of MGGA Grand Rapids captured the 141-pound Open Division title with a decision against King Gildersleve of Flint Town Boxing Club. Displaying lightning hand quickness and excellent footwork, Mitchell won his first state title in a fashion that was sure to make his mentor Floyd Mayweather Sr. proud. 

“I’d say a little bit of everything was working great for me tonight,” Mitchell said. “Shout out to coaches, shout out to my Uncle Floyd (Sr.), shout out to my family, they mean everything to me. My Uncle Floyd actually got me started in boxing.” 


Mercado wins state title at 121-pounds Elite Open; fifth state championship

Boxing out of the La Casa Boxing Club, Guillermo Mercado won the state title in the 121 Elite Open Division as he claimed a decision against Aarkeyse Higdon of Lansing Crown Boxing Club. The state title was the fifth for Mercado, who displayed plenty of heart and boxing ability in grinding out the win against a tough opponent in one of the most entertaining matches of the evening.

Kalamazoo’s Gentle Gibson wins second-consecutive state title

In the 132-pound Open Division, Gentle Gibson of Kalamazoo Boxing won a decision against Nicolas Alonzi of Flint Town Boxing Club. Gibson won his second consecutive state title in impressive fashion as he recorded a pair of standing-eight counts on his way to victory. The state title was the third overall for Gibson who finished in third place at last year’s national Golden Gloves tournament where all of this year’s champions are headed.

“He (Alonzi) was tough,” Gibson said. “I really thought I was going to stop him, but he could take a punch. He didn’t know I had power like that. I can box and I have power. I can do both and I’m still getting better.”  

Four more Open Division state champions were also crowned. Evan Jackson of Kalamazoo Boxing won the title at 154 pounds. Kyree Wiggins of Flint Town boxing won at 165-pound Elite Open, while Joseph McDaye of Kalamazoo Westside Boxing club won at 175-pound Elite Open. In the final bout of the evening, Sardius Simmons won his sixth state championship in the 198-plus Elite Open in a classic matchup against Maurice Davis, who came in as a former state champion as well.

A total of five boxers in the Open Division were also crowned as uncontested Open champions. Those five champions, who will head to the Golden Gloves nationals, included Michael Chester of Saginaw Boxing Club at 176 pounds, Solomon Jagun of Gideon Boxing Club (187 pounds), Zoe Hicks of Lansing Team Glass (112-pound Elite Open Female Division), Sarah Batenburg of MGGA Grand Rapids (132-pound Elite Open Female Division), and Asha Lake of Team Glass (143-pound Elite Open Female Division).   

Uncontested Novice champions included Jaquan Wilson of Lansing Crown boxing at 110-pounds, Daniel Espinoza of Gideon Boxing (121-pounds), Davone Jones of Crown Boxing (132 pounds), Monta Perkins of Kalamazoo Boxing (198-pounds), and in the female Novice Division Emily Martinez of Eli J Boxing (132-pounds), Tamika Lofton of Lansing Team Glass (143-pounds), and Johana Lugo of United Boxing Club (154-pounds).  

Metro Cruise Dust Off Saturday at the Wyoming Moose Lodge; 200+ show cars

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The exciting kickoff to the local car cruisin’ season begins with the Metro Cruise Dust Off on Saturday, May 3 (Courtesy, Metro Cruise)


By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
greer@wktv.org


Don’t miss the exciting kickoff to the car cruisin’ season with the Metro Cruise Dust Off on Saturday, May 3. The Dust Off will be hosted at the Wyoming Moose Lodge, 2630 Burlingame Ave SW, and begin at 8:30 a.m.


The Dust Off has been the Metro Cruise‘s first event of the year since 2014. It was held at rotating sites in the early years, but for the past seven it has been at the Wyoming Moose Lodge. The site has an expansive lot of 200+ spaces with general parking nearby, a large outdoor patio and gracious hosts that give access to the entire building for this event. 


For nearly all show cars and attendees, the Dust Off is their first car event of the year. This event emanates a special nostalgia due to the reuniting of old friends after a long time apart.


(Courtesy, Metro Cruise)


Key details:

*Date: Saturday, May 3, 2025
*Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Show car lot opens at 8:30 a.m.
*Location: Wyoming Moose Lodge (2630 Burlingame Ave SW, Wyoming)
*Free admission, free parking for general cars – follow signs on arrival (see map below)
*Food and drinks available starting at 11 a.m.


Event Entertainment:

*200+ show cars; all from individual local owners
*Build-a-Burger starts at 11 a.m. – various food and drink (full bar)
*Spacious outdoor patio with ample seating; indoor areas and seating also available
*Themed music playing outside throughout event
*Multiple items from the Metro-Merch official collection, including the 2025 Dust Off T-Shirt, just $15 to the first 70 people


Dust Off event parking map (Courtesy, Metro Cruise)

Local boxing coach knows Golden Gloves inside and out: Take a peek at his La Casa Boxing Club

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kent County, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, , , ,
La Casa Boxing Club Owner and Coach Anbrocio Ledesma. (Photo Courtesy, Jaylah Lewis)



By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
greer@wktv.org


When it comes to Golden Gloves boxing in the Wyoming and southern Kent County area, few people are as tuned into the sport as Anbrocio Ledesma.

A longtime boxing trainer in the Wyoming area who has taught many young boxers the fundamentals of the sport, Ledesma is currently expanding his teaching of the sport through his La Casa Boxing Club, located at 2241 84th St. in Byron Center.

Home to some of the most successful boxers in the Grand Rapids area, the gym is well represented at this weekend’s Michigan Golden Gloves State Finals that pits the champions and runners-up from the West side tournament up against the champions and runners-up from the East.

Aquinas College hosting Golden Gloves this weekend

The 2025 Michigan Golden Gloves State Championships are scheduled for Friday and Saturday, May 2 and 3 at Aquinas College’s Sturrus Sports & Fitness Center in Grand Rapids. Doors open at 6 p.m. both days with boxing starting at 7 p.m. Tickets are available at the door.

Representing La Casa Boxing Club will be Guillermo Mercado and Junior Rios in the Elite Open Division, while Harrison Hevelhurst will box in the Elite Novice Division.


La Casa Boxing Club’s Junior Rios. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



A former Golden Gloves boxer himself, Ledesma began his coaching career in Wyoming at the Pride Boxing Club which was located just north of 28th St. in Wyoming.

“I got into training boxers in my mid 20’s,” Ledesma said. “I actually had a couple of older kids who just wanted just to train, not to compete. I started training them at home, then they had a couple cousins come over and it kind of snowballed into that. Then my wife’s uncle took on a gym in Wyoming, called Wyoming Pride, back in the early 2000’s. I found out about that and took on a coaching responsibility there for the better of seven to ten years.” 



La Casa Boxing Club’s Guillermo Mercado. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



After the Pride gym closed, Ledesma began training boxers in a gym that he named the LaCasa Boxing Club, and that he put together in a garage next to his home.

“After Wyoming Pride closed down I stuck around for a little bit longer,” Ledesma said. “We ended up at another spot for a year and half, two years, but at that time I always trained some separate individual kids that wanted individual work at my house in my garage. The journey of my gym started back at my home. That’s why it’s called La Casa. Basically I started training a couple of my older kids.”

The next step in the evolution of La Casa Boxing came when he moved to the current location in Byron Center.

“I took on opening up this gym back in 2023 and that’s where I am now,” Ledesma said. “I’ve had this portion of my gym here in Byron Center for about two years now. Now we’re just here trying to build out here and target the outskirts of the Wyoming area and the Byron Center area.”



La Casa Boxing Club Owner Anbrocio Ledesma (right) and Coach Jackson. (Photo Courtesy, Jaylah Lewis)



Over the years, Ledesma has trained several boxers who have accomplished plenty during their amateur careers. Two of the most successful boxers that have trained under him are Rios and Mercado who are still adding to their legacies.

“Guillermo and Junior have been around the Golden Gloves for some years now,” Ledesma said. “They are past state champs who went on to the nationals several times. Coming through Wyoming Pride we had quite a few state champs as well. I’ve been around some really talented and dedicated fighters.”



La Casa Boxing Club Supplies. (Photo Courtesy, Jaylah Lewis)



This year the gym has a total of 6-10 boxers that come in and train regularly. The gym had three boxers enter the West Michigan Golden Gloves and all three qualified for the upcoming state finals.

With the gym is still relatively new to the Byron Center location, Ledesma has been working at getting the word out. Not only does the gym plan on increasing the numbers of boxers, but it also serves as a place for local youth to come and work out even if they have no desire to become competitive boxers.  

“We’re in the midst right now of trying to reach out to the community,” Ledesma said. “We are waiting to hear back from the school systems and then just putting up signs and flyers around the community. Hopefully word of mouth can start spreading around and even if the kids don’t want to come here and compete, that’s not what we’re about. We’re just offering a different type of exercise. A different way they can vent their frustrations. Just kind of get out and breathe fresh air and exercise at the same time.”

Ledesma is looking for the gym to grow and expand as much as possible in its new locations.

“I’m hoping the gym evolves into where there is no limit for us,” Ledesma said. “They don’t have anything like this out here. I’m hoping that we get 10-to-12 fighters out of the gym next year. More importantly, I want it to be in the community and advertised as a boxing, fitness club. It’s not necessarily that you are going to join this gym and we are going to turn you into a boxer.”   

Boil Water Advisory in place for Kentwood customers on City of Wyoming Water System

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kent County, West Michigan, ,
(Courtesy, pxhere.com)


By WKTV Staff
greer@wktv.org


The City of Wyoming’s boil water advisory is in effect for Kentwood customers served by the Wyoming water system.

The areas of Kentwood under the boil water advisory are east of Division Avenue to Madison Avenue and from the north side of Maplelawn Street to south of Harp Street. The affected areas are outlined on this map.

Residents and businesses in the affected areas are encouraged to use bottled water or to boil water for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes and preparing food. Bring tap water, including filtered water, to a full rolling boil for 1 minute and let it cool before using.

The City of Wyoming issued a boil water advisory today until further notice due to a drop in water pressure in a portion of its water distribution system.

The City of Kentwood is working closely with the City of Wyoming on this situation and will provide updates as they become available. These updates will be shared on the City of Kentwood’s website and Facebook page.

Ford International Airport welcomes veterans for Mid-Michigan Honor Flight

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kent County, Upcoming Events, Veterans, West Michigan,
(Courtesy, Ford International Airport)


By WKTV Staff
greer@wktv.org


The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority will be joined by the Mid-Michigan Honor Flight to support a “Tour of Honor” for Veterans to visit Washington D.C. This two-day event will include a tour of the memorials in Washington D.C., dedicated to their service and sacrifices.

Community members are invited to attend the Welcome Home Reception, which is a public event held at the Airport on Wednesday, April 30 at 8:40 p.m., and is an opportunity to greet and thank Veterans for their service. Those wanting to participate are encouraged to bring signs and American flags and should plan to stand in a parade line throughout the terminal building.

884 measles cases confirmed across the United States; Michigan and Kent County health officials react to the arrival

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(Courtesy, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, MDHHS)



By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
greer@wktv.org


Health departments and health officials across Michigan and Kent County are transitioning from preparing for the arrival of measles to reacting to the arrival of the disease, which was once officially considered eliminated in the United States in the year 2000.

Measles began its comeback in the United States in February and early March in the Southwest United States, specifically New Mexico and West Texas. 

884 cases across the United States, 9 in Michigan

Since then, cases of measles have been spreading across the nation. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the latest numbers have shown an increase of cases with 30 states in the U.S. reporting cases. According to the CDC, a total of 884 cases are confirmed across the nation as of April 24. In the state of Michigan, as of April 24, there have been nine confirmed cases of measles according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). A total of four outbreak cases of the measles has been reported by the MDHHS with the outbreak located in Montcalm County in West Central Michigan. Locally, the first case of measles was reported in Kent County on April 1. The measles case in Kent County was the first reported in Kent County since 2013.

Along with measles, the state of Michigan has also seen an uptick in cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough. In 2024 Michigan reported 2,081 cases of pertussis, a 19-fold increase from 2023 and the third consecutive annual rise. So far in 2025, the state has already reported nearly 700 pertussis cases, including 112 in infants under age 2, the age group most at risk for severe complications.  

“Measles is a highly contagious disease that continues to circulate both in the U.S. and globally,” said Dr. Adam London, Health Officer at the Kent County Health Department. “This case is a reminder of how quickly measles can spread and the importance of vaccination. We urge residents to check their immunization status, especially if planning to travel internationally or into areas with active measles outbreaks.”

On April 24, healthcare officials from around the state of Michigan convened for a conference call to address the state of measles in Michigan and discussed ways to address the issue and keep the public up to date on the situation.

One of the main points of emphasis by the panel, that included Michigan Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive for the State of Michigan, was the need for vaccinations.

“These numbers are alarming, and this resurgence is preventable,” Dr. Bagdasarian said. “Diseases like measles and pertussis are highly contagious and potentially deadly, especially for infants and young children. We have safe, effective vaccines that protect against these illnesses – vaccines that have been available for decades. Let’s use all the tools at our disposal to protect our most vulnerable.”



(Courtesy, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, MDHHS)



Vaccine rates have been falling in recent years and that has enabled diseases like the measles and pertussis to mount a comeback.

According to the MDHHS, vaccination rates for young children in Michigan have declined over the past decade. As of March 2025, only 71.5% of Michigan children ages 19 to 35 months had received four or more DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) doses. MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine coverage for this age group was 79.4%. Only 68.4% of young children in Michigan have received all the vaccines recommended to protect them from 14 serious diseases by the time they’re 2-years old. Pertussis (whooping cough) often begins with mild cold-like symptoms, but progresses to severe coughing fits that can last for weeks. More than half of infants who get pertussis need to be hospitalized, and complications can include pneumonia, brain damage and death.

“Vaccination is not simply a personal choice, it is a public health responsibility that protects the entire community, particularly those at highest risk for serious health consequences,” said Dr. Rachel Klamo, a family physician and president of the Michigan Academy of Family Physicians. “We encounter vaccine-preventable illnesses daily and are seeing cases of once-rare diseases, such as measles, the consequences of which can be life-long and devastating. For physicians, this is heartbreaking because it is preventable.”

“Up-to-date vaccines are key in protecting children against measles”

Up-to-date vaccines are key in protecting children against measles which is easily spread. According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, measles is a disease caused by a virus. It is one of the world’s most contagious diseases. The MDHHS website also states that 90% of persons without immunity to measles will become ill after exposure to the virus. It also states that measles can live for up to two hours in an airspace after an infected person leaves an area.

The MMR vaccine, recommended starting at age 1, offers long-lasting protection against measles. Michigan’s recent outbreak was linked to a large, ongoing outbreak in Ontario, Canada.



(Image Courtesy, pxhere.com)



“Parents deserve accurate, science-based information about vaccines,” said Veronica Valentine McNally, president of the Franny Strong Foundation and founder of the I Vaccinate campaign. “When families are informed, they choose to protect their children. That’s why we created IVaccinate.org—to empower Michigan parents with the facts they need to make confident decisions.”

The I Vaccinate campaign is a nationally recognized joint initiative of the Franny Strong Foundation and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, supported by the CDC and every major health and medical organization in the state.”

Parents especially need to know that the DTaP vaccine is recommended at 2, 4 and 6 months, followed by boosters at 15-18 months and 4-to-6 years to protect against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis. The MMR vaccine is recommended at 12-to-15 months and again at 4-to-6 years. The vaccines are available through pediatricians, most pharmacies and local health departments. Children eligible for the Vaccines for Children program can receive vaccines at no cost from enrolled providers.

“With vaccine-preventable diseases making a comeback in our state and across the country, this is not the time to let our guard down,” said Dr. Bagdasarian. “This is a good time to call your health care provider and make sure your family is up to date on vaccines.”

Ford International Airport introduces first-ever mascot, Jerry the Jet

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Ford International Airport’s new mascot Jerry the Jet. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff
greer@wktv.org

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport revealed its first-ever official mascot, Jerry the Jet™, a friendly and engaging character designed to enhance the airport experience for guests and promote aviation in the community.

Created in collaboration with its marketing and advertising partner, Extra Credit Projects, Jerry the Jet™ is part of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority’s broader effort to elevate the guest experience, increase brand recognition and deepen community engagement. With a cheerful personality and a passion for flight, Jerry will serve as a mascot for both in-terminal experiences and events throughout West Michigan.

“This is more than just a mascot,” said Tory Richardson, president and CEO of the Ford International Airport Authority. “Jerry the Jet™ is a fun, approachable way for us to connect with our guests and our community while sparking curiosity about aviation. He embodies our commitment to creating an exceptional and welcoming experience for everyone who walks through our doors.”





In addition to greeting passengers in the terminal, Jerry the Jet™ will appear at community events and serve as an ambassador for the Airport. He will help educate audiences about flight, careers in aviation and the role airports play in connecting people and places.

Ford International Airport was recently recognized as one of the top-performing airports globally for guest experience by Airports Council International World. Over the past year, the Airport has set a new passenger record, added accessibility amenities including a sensory room, added commercial airline partners to expand nonstop flights options, opened four new restaurants and more.

For more information about the Ford International Airport, visit FlyFord.org.

Sunday Night Funnies’ annual Older Americans Month show to feature three local media personalities May 4

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, , , , , ,
The SNF’s Older Americans Month show lineup will feature seven comedians ages 55+ (Courtesy, Brian B.)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


The Sunday Night Funnies (SNF) will host its third annual Older Americans Month show on Sunday, May 4 at The Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming. This special lineup will feature seven comedians ages 55 and older.

“There are more than 117 million Americans 50 and older – 35% of the total population,” says Brian B., founder and MC of the SNF. “I wanted to do a special show to honor and represent that age group.”

This is the third year of special performances to recognize specific brackets of individuals. In February, SNF hosted a show with all-Black comedians in honor of Black History Month. March featured an all-women lineup for Women’s History Month.

“The Sunday Night Funnies is a melting pot of comedians and audience members of different ages and nationalities, so why not honor all the groups that make up the show?” says Brian B.

The SNF lineup for the third annual Older Americans Month show (Courtesy, Brian B.)

An all-star lineup!

Among the May 4 show lineup are three local media personalities. Making her first SNF appearance is Fox 17 meteorologist Terri DeBoer. Retired host of long-running radio show “Flowerland Garden Show,” Rick Vuyst, is also joining the lineup. Another former local radio morning personality, Jojo Girard, will close out the show.

Eva Pritchard, 2023 and 2024 Kingpin of Comedy quarterfinalist, comics Ed Hunter and Tom Hofbauer of Toledo, OH, and local comedian Stu McCallister will also perform.

Don’t forget!

The SNF eighth annual Kingpin of Comedy competition will begin its first round the following Sunday, May 11. The competition will run weekly through Oct. 26.

Kingpin of Comedy previous winners (Courtesy, Brian B.)

About SNF

The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. The weekly live stand-up comedy performance is free admission and features a variety of local and national comics. Now in its 16th year, over 1,275 different comedians have entertained SNF audiences. Each show begins at 7:30 p.m. (winter/spring) and 8:30 p.m. (summer/early fall) at Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming.

Wyoming mobile food pantry to be held Monday, April 28

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , ,



By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Wyoming Public Schools (WPS) has partnered with Feeding America Mobile Pantry to host a Mobile Pantry once a month.

*WHS April Mobile Food Pantry will be held Monday, April 28 from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

What to expect

Though the selection of food varies each month, there are always a variety of fresh and frozen items available at the Mobile Pantry.

The Mobile Pantry is drive-thru style, and families are asked to remain in their vehicles for safety.



This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Wyoming-High-School-Mobile-Food-Pantry-Courtesy-WPS-1024x597.jpg
WHS Mobile Food Pantry Map (Courtesy, WPS)


Cars enter at the main entrance to WHS (1350 Prairie Parkway). Volunteers will direct traffic in the parking lot to help with efficiency.

Once in line, a volunteer will approach each car to record the name, address, number of people in the household, and the reason the food is needed for each family. Once a car has reached the front of the line, volunteers will load a box of food into the trunk.

Resources

To learn more about Feeding America West Michigan and the services they offer, click here.

For the Feeding America Mobile Food Pantry schedule, click here.

Golden Gloves produces plenty of high-level bouts

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kent County, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, WKTV Featured sports, , , , , ,



By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
greer@wktv.org


Boxers from all across West Michigan descended into the Sturrus Sports and Fitness Center on the campus of Aquinas College for the 2025 West Michigan Golden Gloves Finals this past Saturday and a large crowd was treated to four hours of outstanding action.

A total of 16 bouts were on the card and nearly every one provided plenty of action as boxers fought it out for West Michigan titles and the opportunity to advance to the state finals at Aquinas College May 2 and 3.

Wyoming’s PK Boxing Gym sparkles

Locally, PK Boxing Gym of Wyoming enjoyed a productive night. PK Boxing had two boxers in the finals and the duo actually fought in back-to-back matches. In a pair of hard-fought matches, Sebastian Romo and Jose Jimenez-Gonzalez both came away winning decisions and West Michigan titles.


PK Boxing teammates Jose Jimenez-Gonzalez (third from left) and Sebastian Romo (fourth from left) celebrate with teammates and coaches following their wins at the West Michigan Golden Gloves Finals. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)



Boxing in the 127-pound Youth Novice Division, Romo defeated Teodocio Magana of the Crown Boxing Club of Lansing. The bout was an intense struggle from beginning to end.

“It was exciting”, said Romo, a student at Jenison High School. “I love everything about boxing. It was intense. It was a good fight. I thought it was a war and I had a good time.”

Romo has been boxing for three years, and this is his first time competing at Golden Gloves. He became interested in boxing while watching the sport with his family growing up.

“I was basically just watching a lot of fights at home with my dad and my family,” Romo said. “We watched a popular fighter, Canelo Alvarez, and after that I wanted to start boxing.”

In the following bout in the 147-pound Youth Novice Division, Jimenez-Gonzalez defeated Jeremiah Henry, also from Crown Boxing, in another close, hard-fought match.

A student at Grand Rapids University Preparatory Academy, Jimenez-Gonzalez has been boxing for a short time and his match in the Golden Gloves was the first of his career. 

“I was nervous at first, but once I got in there, I was ready for war,” Jimenez-Gonzalez said. “It was exciting. My body shots were working the best, mainly my uppercuts.”

Like his teammate, Jimenez-Gonzalez grew up watching boxing and especially Canelo Alvarez.

“As a youngster I used to watch a lot of fights”, Jimenez-Gonzalez said, “especially Canelo. My grandpa used to fight, too. He never made it pro, but I wanted to follow his lead.”

Winning their bouts back-to-back was extra special for the teammates.

“We talked about it a lot,” Romo said. “It was fun to do it back-to-back.”

Floyd Santiago back

While Romo and Jimenez-Gonzalez were a pair of younger boxers making an initial name for themselves, Floyd Santiago was an older boxer who was back in the action after a lengthy span away from the sport. Boxing out of the Michigan Golden Gloves Association (MGGA) gym in Grand Rapids, Santiago was back in the Golden Gloves for the first time in eight years. Santiago showed no signs of any rust after the long time away from boxing as he won the 187-pound Elite Novice title by stopping Matt Rogein of Jet Boxing from Okemos.



Floyd Santiago of MGGA Grand Rapids won the 187-pound Elite Novice title after an eight-year layoff from boxing. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)



Santiago displayed a relentless style piling up points and also recording a standing eight count in his victory. Getting the win after eight years of missing the sport was extra special for Santiago who thought about boxing the entire time.

“It feels great,” Santiago said. “Even through the eight years I had stopped boxing, I was doing body building, so I built up that discipline to be able to consistently do something every single day. But the whole time that I stopped boxing, I just regretted it. I love boxing so much. I regretted stopping. So now I’ve been back for six months, and I’ve been able to do this. It’s pretty great.”

In the Elite Open Division, another MGGA boxer, Siderio Mitchell (see below), came away with a championship. Boxing in the 143-pound Open Division weight class, Mitchell met a familiar face in the finals in his teammate from MGGA, Mike Guzman. In one of the most crowd-pleasing matches of the evening, Mitchell won a decision against his MGGA teammate in a bout that was full of action for all three rounds.



Siderio Mitchell of MGGA Grand Rapids defeated teammate Mike Guzman in the 143-pound Elite Open Division final. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)



The two boxers were meeting for the first time in an actual match despite having sparred each other countless times at the MGGA gym.

“I probably have over a hundred rounds sparring with him,” Mitchell said. “He’s pretty good, that’s why I sparred him a lot. I told myself even though I sparred him this way, maybe I switch it up. I switched it up a few times in sparring, but tonight, I really need to switch it up.”

The plan worked out as Mitchell delivered his shots and avoided getting caught.

“I knew I couldn’t go out there and fight him the same way I did in sparring because he is going to expect that,” Mitchell said. “So when he was expecting to trade punches; boom, boom, boom, I hit him, then I got out the way. He wasn’t expecting that. Then the last 10 seconds, I know he’s a brawler. Last year I saw him brawling. He’s really good at that and he won most of those, but I made sure I hit and got out the way, finishing up my last 10 seconds doing laps around the ring and I won it. I did it.”

Another West Michigan title for Kalamazoo’s Gentle Gibson

The 132-pound Open Division final between Gentle Gibson of the Kalamazoo Boxing Club and Aarkeyse Higdon of Crown Boxing was another match that had the fans involved. Gibson, who won a state title last year, added a West Michigan title this year as he won in the second round on a referee stoppage.

The final two bouts in the Open Division also were won by boxers from the Kalamazoo Boxing Club. In the 154-pound weight class Evan Jackson defeated Alejandro Hernandez of Anahuac Boxing while in the 165-pound open final Jermont Reece defeated Joseph McDaye of Westside Boxing in Kalamazoo.

In the Elite Novice Division, Davone Jones of Crown Boxing beat Harrison Hevelhurst of LaCasa Boxing Club in the 132-pound weight class. At 143 pounds Mohammad Aliyar of United Boxing Club defeated Mekhi Know of Muskegon TCB. At 154-pouonds in the Elite Novice Division Carlito Aggers of Kalamazoo Boxing defeated Mateo Diaz of Sakwamdo Boxing Club of Holland. Ontess Toliver of Blue Gym in Grand Rapids beat Joe L. Johnson of Crown Boxing at 176 pounds.


In the 165-pound Elite Novice Division, Tommy Watts of TCB Boxing of Muskegon defeated Nate Dotson of Crown Boxing. In the 198-pound Elite Novice Division, Monta Perkins of Kalamazoo Boxing defeated D’Angelo Williams of Team Glass Boxing of Lansing, while in the 198-plus Elite Division, Aiden Baker of MGGA defeated Robert Lathan of Kalamazoo Boxing.

In the long Bantam Novice Division match of the evening, Ricardo Emiliano of Westside Boxing defeated Ethan Edmonds of Crown Boxing, and in the lone Junior Novice Division bout, Tayshon Whitfield of Crown Boxing beat Ronald Salvador of Eli J Boxing Club.